FX Inverter/Charger: Operator's Manual

FX Inverter/Charger
FX and VFX Mobile Series
Operator’s Manual
About OutBack Power Technologies
OutBack Power Technologies is a leader in advanced energy conversion technology. OutBack products include true sine wave
inverter/chargers, maximum power point tracking charge controllers, and system communication components, as well as circuit
breakers, batteries, accessories, and assembled systems.
Applicability
These instructions apply to OutBack inverter/charger models FX2012MT, '9. FX2524MT, FX2532MT, FX2536MT, FX3048MT,
VFX2812M, VFX3524M, VFX3232M, VFX3236M, and VFX3648M only.
Contact Information
Address: Corporate Headquarters European Office
17825 – 59th Avenue N.E. Hansastrasse 8
Suite B D-91126
Arlington, WA 98223 USA Schwabach, Germany
Telephone: +1.360.435.6030 +49.9122.79889.0
+1.360.618.4363 (Technical Support) +49.9122.79889.21 (Fax)
+1.360.435.6019 (Fax)
Email: Support@outbackpower.com
Website: http://www.outbackpower.com
Disclaimer
UNLESS SPECIFICALLY AGREED TO IN WRITING, OUTBACK POWER TECHNOLOGIES:
(a) MAKES NO WARRANTY AS TO THE ACCURACY, SUFFICIENCY OR SUITABILITY OF ANY TECHNICAL OR OTHER INFORMATION
PROVIDED IN ITS MANUALS OR OTHER DOCUMENTATION.
(b) ASSUMES NO RESPONSIBILITY OR LIABILITY FOR LOSS OR DAMAGE, WHETHER DIRECT, INDIRECT, CONSEQUENTIAL OR
INCIDENTAL, WHICH MIGHT ARISE OUT OF THE USE OF SUCH INFORMATION. THE USE OF ANY SUCH INFORMATION WILL BE
ENTIRELY AT THE USER’S RISK.
OutBack Power Technologies cannot be responsible for system failure, damages, or injury resulting from improper installation of
their products.
Information included in this manual is subject to change without notice.
Notice of Copyright
FX and VFX Mobile Series Inverter/Charger Operator’s Manual © 2016 by OutBack Power Technologies. All Rights Reserved.
Trademarks
OutBack Power, the OutBack Power logo, FLEXware, and OPTICS RE are trademarks owned and used by OutBack Power
Technologies, Inc. The ALPHA logo and the phrase “member of the Alpha Group” are trademarks owned and used by Alpha
Technologies Inc. These trademarks may be registered in the United States and other countries.
Date and Revision

August 2016, Revision A
Part Number
900-0198-01-00 Rev A
Table of Contents
Introduction ............................................................................................................... 7
Audience ......................................................................................................................................................................................... 7
Symbols Used ................................................................................................................................................................................ 7
Welcome to OutBack Power Technologies ......................................................................................................................... 8
Inverter Functions ........................................................................................................................................................................ 8
General Safety ............................................................................................................................................................................... 9
Inverter Controls ........................................................................................................................................................................... 9
System Display and Controller ............................................................................................................................................................. 9
On/Off Switch .......................................................................................................................................................................................... 10
Operation ................................................................................................................. 11
LED Indicators ............................................................................................................................................................................. 11
Battery Indicators ................................................................................................................................................................................... 11
Status Indicators ..................................................................................................................................................................................... 12
Inverter Functionality .............................................................................................................................................................. 12
AC Input Connection ............................................................................................................................................................... 13
Description of Inverter Operations ..................................................................................................................................... 13
Inverting .................................................................................................................................................................................................... 13
DC and AC Voltages ....................................................................................................................................................................................................14
Search ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................14
Input ........................................................................................................................................................................................................... 15
AC Current Settings .....................................................................................................................................................................................................16
AC Source Acceptance ...............................................................................................................................................................................................16
Generator Input ............................................................................................................................................................................................................17
Transfer ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................17
Battery Charging .................................................................................................................................................................................... 18
Charge Current..............................................................................................................................................................................................................18
Charge Cycle ..................................................................................................................................................................................................................19
Charging Steps ..............................................................................................................................................................................................................20
New Charging Cycle ....................................................................................................................................................................................................22
Equalization....................................................................................................................................................................................................................23
Battery Temperature Compensation ....................................................................................................................................................................23
Multiple-Inverter Installations (Stacking) ....................................................................................................................................... 25
Stacking Configurations ...................................................................................................................................................................... 26
Classic Series Stacking (Dual-Stack) ......................................................................................................................................................................26
OutBack Series Stacking (Dual-Stack) ...................................................................................................................................................................26
Parallel Stacking (Dual-Stack and Larger) ...........................................................................................................................................................27
Series/Parallel Stacking (Quad-Stack or Larger) ................................................................................................................................................28
Three-Phase Stacking .................................................................................................................................................................................................28
Power Save .....................................................................................................................................................................................................................29
Auxiliary Terminals ................................................................................................................................................................................ 32
System Display-Based Functions (AGS) ............................................................................................................................. 34
Metering .................................................................................................................. 35
MATE3 Screens ........................................................................................................................................................................... 35
Inverter Screen ........................................................................................................................................................................................ 35
Battery Screen ......................................................................................................................................................................................... 36
900-0198-01-00 Rev A 3
Table of Contents
Troubleshooting ....................................................................................................... 37
Basic Troubleshooting ............................................................................................................................................................. 37
Error Messages ........................................................................................................................................................................... 40
Warning Messages .................................................................................................................................................................... 41
Disconnect Messages .............................................................................................................................................................. 42
Specifications ........................................................................................................... 43
Electrical Specifications........................................................................................................................................................... 43
Mechanical Specifications ...................................................................................................................................................... 46
Environmental Specifications ............................................................................................................................................... 46
Regulatory Specifications ....................................................................................................................................................... 47
Listings ....................................................................................................................................................................................................... 47
Summary of Operating Limits............................................................................................................................................... 47
Default Settings and Ranges (MATE or MATE2) ............................................................................................................. 48
Default Settings and Ranges (MATE3) ............................................................................................................................... 53
Definitions.................................................................................................................................................................................... 58
Index........................................................................................................................ 59
4 900-0198-01-00 Rev A
Table of Contents
List of Tables
Table 1 Battery Indicator Values .............................................................................................................................. 11
Table 2 Charge Currents for FX and VFX Mobile Models ............................................................................... 18
Table 3 Temperature Compensation..................................................................................................................... 24
Table 4 Aux Mode Functions .................................................................................................................................... 34
Table 5 Troubleshooting ............................................................................................................................................ 37
Table 6 Error Troubleshooting ................................................................................................................................. 40
Table 7 Warning Troubleshooting.......................................................................................................................... 41
Table 8 Disconnect Troubleshooting .................................................................................................................... 42
Table 9 Electrical Specifications for 12-Volt Mobile Models.......................................................................... 43
Table 14 Mechanical Specifications for Mobile Models .................................................................................... 46
Table 15 Environmental Specifications for Mobile Models ............................................................................. 46
Table 16 Operating Limits for Mobile Models ...................................................................................................... 47
Table 17 12-Volt Inverter Settings (MATE) ............................................................................................................. 48
Table 22 12-Volt Inverter Settings (MATE3) ........................................................................................................... 53
Table 27 Terms and Definitions ................................................................................................................................. 58
900-0198-01-00 Rev A 5
Table of Contents
List of Figures
Figure 1 FX Mobile Series Inverter/Charger with Turbo Fan ............................................................................. 8
Figure 2 MATE, MATE2, MATE3, and AXS Port ........................................................................................................ 9
Figure 3 LED Indicators ................................................................................................................................................ 11
Figure 4 Inverter Status LED Indicators .................................................................................................................. 12
Figure 5 Charging Stages (Auto Setting) ............................................................................................................... 19
Figure 6 Charging Stages (On Setting) ................................................................................................................... 20
Figure 7 OutBack HUB10.3, MATE, MATE2 , and MATE3 .................................................................................. 25
Figure 8 Example of Classic Series Stacking Arrangement ............................................................................. 26
Figure 9 Example of OutBack Series Stacking Arrangement .......................................................................... 27
Figure 10 Example of Parallel Stacking Arrangement (Three Inverters) ....................................................... 27
Figure 11 Example of Series/Parallel Stacking Arrangement (Four Inverters) ............................................ 28
Figure 12 Example of Three-Phase Stacking Arrangement (Three Inverters) ............................................. 28
Figure 13 Power Save Levels and Loads ................................................................................................................... 29
Figure 14 Power Save Priority (Parallel) .................................................................................................................... 30
Figure 15 Power Save Priority (Split-Phase) ............................................................................................................ 31
Figure 16 Home Screen .................................................................................................................................................. 35
Figure 17 Inverter Screens ............................................................................................................................................. 35
Figure 18 Battery Screen ................................................................................................................................................ 36
Figure 19 AC Test Points................................................................................................................................................. 37
6 900-0198-01-00 Rev A
Introduction
Audience
This manual provides instructions for setup and operation of the product. It does not cover installation.
The manual is intended to be used by anyone required to operate the FX or VFX Mobile Series
Inverter/Charger. Operators must be familiar with all the safety regulations pertaining to operating power
equipment of this type as required by local code. Operators are advised to have basic electrical
knowledge and a complete understanding of this equipment’s features and functions. Do not use this
product unless it has been installed by a qualified installer in accordance with the FX and VX Mobile Series
Inverter/Charger Installation Manual.
Symbols Used
WARNING: Hazard to Human Life
This type of notation indicates that the hazard could be harmful to human life.
CAUTION: Hazard to Equipment

This type of notation indicates that the hazard may cause damage to the equipment.
IMPORTANT:
This type of notation indicates that the information provided is important to the
installation, operation and/or maintenance of the equipment. Failure to follow the
recommendations in such a notation could result in voiding the equipment warranty.
NOTE:
This type of notation indicates that the information provided is important to
understanding the operation and limits of the equipment. Failure to follow the
recommendations in such a notation could result in improper or failed operation.
MORE INFORMATION
When this symbol appears next to text, it means that more information is available in other manuals relating
to the subject. The most common reference is to the FX and VFX Mobile Series Inverter/Charger Installation
Manual. Another common reference is the system display manual.
900-0198-01-00 Rev A 7
Introduction
Welcome to OutBack Power Technologies

Thank you for purchasing the OutBack FX and VFX Mobile Series Inverter/Chargers. These products are
designed to offer a complete power conversion system between batteries, shore power, and generator.
In shore-based mobile and marine connections, the shore power (utility grid) is used as the primary
source. When the shore power is removed, the inverter takes over to run the loads from the batteries.
Figure 1 FX Mobile Series Inverter/Charger with Turbo Fan
Inverter Functions
 Battery (DC)-to-AC inverting which delivers single-phase power (120 Vac/60 Hz)
 Rapid transfer between AC source and inverter output with minimal delay time
 Wattages from 2.0 kVA to 3.6 kVA
 12-, 24-, 32-, 36-, and 48-volt models
 Uses the MATE, MATE2 or MATE3 System Display and Controller or the AXS Port™ SunSpec Modbus Interface
(sold separately) for user interface
 MATE3 must have firmware revision 003.007.xxx or higher
 Supports the OPTICS RE™ online tool1 for a cloud-based remote monitoring and control application
 Requires the MATE3 or the AXS Port
 Visit www.outbackpower.com to download the software
 Uses the HUB4™ or HUB10.3™ Communications Manager for stacking
 Stackable in series (OutBack or Classic), parallel, series/parallel, and three phase configurations
 Automatic neutral-to-ground bond switching
 Listed to ANSI/UL 458 (5th Edition) and CSA C22.2 by ETL
 Single AC input with dual input programming; individualized priorities can be selected when switching from
shore power to AC generator
 external switching device required
 system display required for individual programming
1
Outback Power Technologies Intuitive Control System for Renewable Energy
8 900-0198-01-00 Rev A
Introduction
General Safety
WARNING: Limitations on Use
This equipment is NOT intended for use with life support equipment or other medical
equipment or devices.
WARNING: Reduced Protection

If this product is used in a manner not specified by FX product literature, the product’s
internal safety protection may be impaired.
CAUTION: Equipment Damage

Only use components or accessories recommended or sold by OutBack Power
Technologies or its authorized agents.
Inverter Controls
The FX inverter has no external controls. It can operate normally without an external control or
interface. Basic modes and settings are pre-programmed at the factory. (See the menu tables
beginning on page 48.) However, external communication devices such as the OutBack MATE3
can be used to operate, program, or troubleshoot the inverter.
System Display and Controller
Figure 2 MATE, MATE2, MATE3, and AXS Port
The MATE, MATE2, and MATE3 System Display and Controller and the AXS Port SunSpec Modbus Interface
(all sold separately) are designed to accommodate programming and monitoring of an OutBack inverter
system. A system display such as the MATE provides the means to adjust the default settings to match the
installation where needed, monitor system performance, and troubleshoot fault or shutdown conditions.
It also has data logging and interface functions using the Internet.
900-0198-01-00 Rev A 9
Introduction
The MATE2 is a system display designed for use with mobile FX inverters. It is intended to be
flush-mounted in a panel. Along with programmed criteria for accepting shore or generator AC sources,
it has the Advanced Generator Start function which sets many parameters for generator control.
The MATE3 is an advanced system display. In addition to the functions of the MATE2, it has improved
accessibility to screens and readings. The programming items and settings have multiple
password-protected access levels for increased security. It is intended to be surface-mounted.
NOTE:
Most references to screens, navigation, and menu items in this book are to the MATE3.
However, the tables of factory defaults and ranges at the back of the book are shown in
MATE or MATE2 format. These begin with Table 17 on page 48.
The MATE3’s Configuration Wizard is capable of automatically configuring inverters to a series of preset
values. This is often more efficient than attempting to manually program each setting in each inverter.
Affected fields include system type, battery charging, and AC source configuration.
Once settings are modified using any system display, it can be removed from the installation. The settings
are stored in the nonvolatile memory of the FX inverter. However, it is highly recommended to install it as
part of the system. This provides the means to monitor system performance and respond quickly should it
be necessary to correct a fault or shutdown condition.
The AXS Port can perform similar functions using a computer interface.
IMPORTANT:
Some functions are not based in the inverter, but are part of the system display.
They will not function if the system display is removed. These functions are listed
beginning on page 34.
IMPORTANT:
The FX inverter can use the OPTICS RE online tool as a system display. OPTICS RE must
be used in conjunction with the MATE3 or with the AXS Port SunSpec Modbus Interface.
The MATE3 system display must have firmware revision 003.000.xxx or higher.
On/Off Switch
If a system display is not in use, the inverter can be equipped with a switch to turn it on and off. This
switch is not sold as an inverter accessory; a common toggle switch can be used. The switch is wired to
the INVERTER ON/OFF auxiliary terminals. (See the FX Mobile Series Inverter/Charger Installation Manual
for more information on wiring the switch.)
This switch turns only the inverter on and off. It does not turn the charger or any other function on or off.
All inverter functions will operate according to their programmed settings. Functions included with a
system display will not be available.
10 900-0198-01-00 Rev A
Operation
LED Indicators
AUX Indicator (see page 31)
Battery
Status Indicators
Indicators
Figure 3 LED Indicators
Battery Indicators
The Battery LED indicators show the approximate battery state. (See IMPORTANT note below.) The Battery
indicators and the Inverter Status indicators are independent. They may accompany each other depending
on conditions. Common combinations are noted on page 12.
 A green indicator (FULL) means the batteries have an adequate charge at that time. It does not always mean they
are full. It may be accompanied by a yellow Status indicator when an AC source is charging.
 A yellow indicator (OK) means the batteries are somewhat discharged.
 A red indicator (LOW) means the batteries are greatly discharged and may require attention. It may be
accompanied by a red Status indicator to indicate a low battery error.
Table 1 Battery Indicator Values

12 Vdc Unit 24 Vdc Unit, 32 Vdc Unit, 36 Vdc Unit, 48 Vdc Unit,
Color Battery Status
± 0.2 Vdc ± 0.3 Vdc ± 0.3 Vdc ± 0.4 Vdc
GREEN 12.5 Vdc or higher 25.0 Vdc or higher 33.3 Vdc or higher 37.5 Vdc or higher 50.0 Vdc or higher ACCEPTABLE
YELLOW 11.5 to 12.4 Vdc 23.0 to 24.8 Vdc 30.6 to 33.0 Vdc 34.5 to 37.2 Vdc 46.0 to 49.6 Vdc MARGINAL
RED 11.4 Vdc or lower 22.8 Vdc or lower 30.4 Vdc or lower 34.2 Vdc or lower 45.6 Vdc or lower LOW
NOTES:
 Gaps in the table (higher-voltage units) are due to the resolution of the inverter’s DC meter.
 These voltage settings are not the same as the Low Battery Cut-Out (LBCO) set point. (See page 13.) The Battery indicator
settings cannot be changed.
 Voltages higher than shown in the GREEN row usually show that the batteries are charging.
IMPORTANT:
Due to different system states, battery voltage does not always indicate an accurate state of charge. It is
accurate if batteries have been at rest for several hours at room temperature (25°C or 77°F, or as specified
by the battery manufacturer). If they have any loads, a charging source, or are at another temperature,
their voltage may not reflect their true state. The OutBack FLEXnet DC is a battery monitor that can be
added to the system to provide accurate measurements.
900-0198-01-00 Rev A 11
Operation
Status Indicators
STATUS INVERTER (Green):
Solid: The FX inverter is on and providing power.
Flashing: The inverter has been turned on but is idle.
 The inverter is likely in Search mode. See page 14.
Off: The inverter is off. It is not waiting to provide power.
 See the system display manual to turn the inverter on.
 Any power present is from another source such as the utility grid
or generator.
 The inverter may also be a slave that is in Silent mode due to the 1 2 3
Power Save function. If so, the master inverter may still be
providing power to the system.
See page 28 for a description of Power Save.
AC IN (Yellow):
Solid: The AC source is connected and providing power.
 The FX inverter may or may not be charging the batteries, depending on settings.
 May be accompanied by green STATUS INVERTER indicator (1).
Flashing: The AC source is present but has not been accepted.
 If flashing continues, the FX inverter is refusing the source. See the Troubleshooting section on page 37.
Off: No AC source is detected.
 If a source is supposed to be present, see the Troubleshooting section on page 37.
ERROR (Red):
Solid: Error. The inverter has shut down due to a critical problem which may be internal or external.
 This indicator is accompanied by an error message in the system display.
 See page 40 for a description of error messages.
Flashing: Warning. The inverter has detected a non-critical problem but has not yet shut down.
 A warning does not always lead to a shutdown — if it does, it becomes an error.
 This indicator is accompanied by a warning message in the system display.
 See page 41 for a description of warning messages.
Off: No problems are detected.
Figure 4 Inverter Status LED Indicators
Inverter Functionality
FX inverters possess a set of common functions or operations. These operations are described in detail
beginning on page 13.
Most of the inverter’s individual operations and functions can be programmed using the system display.
This allows customization or fine tuning of the inverter’s performance.
12 900-0198-01-00 Rev A
Operation
Each distinct mode, function, or operation is accompanied by a symbol representing the inverter and
that operation:
DC These items represent the input from the AC
TRANSFER source, the output to the AC loads, DC functions
(inverting, charging, etc.), and the transfer relay.
AC IN AC OUT
Arrows on each symbol represent power flow.
The symbols may have other features depending on the operation.
AC Input Connection
The FX inverter has one set of input connections. Only one AC source can be physically wired to it at any
time. However, two different AC sources (usually shore power and generator) can be used with an
external transfer switch. The inverter can be programmed with separate input criteria for each source.
See the FX Mobile Series Installation Manual for more information on connections.
The inverter’s two input selections can be programmed for separate input modes (see below). The
selection (Grid or Gen) can be chosen in the AC Input and Current Limit menu. (See the MATE3 menu
tables beginning on page 53.)
NOTE:
The input types are labeled for grid and generator due to common conventions, not
because of inverter requirements. Each selection can accept any AC source as long as it
meets the requirements of the FX inverter and the selected input mode. If necessary,
the Gen selection can accept grid power. The opposite is also true.
Description of Inverter Operations

The items in this section are operations common to all FX inverters. These are used in most or all of the
input modes described in the preceding section.
Some of the items in this section are functions which can be manually selected, enabled, or customized.
Other items are general topics or applications for the inverter. These items may not have their own
menus, but their activity can still be influenced or optimized by changing certain settings.
Any of these items may need to be adjusted so that the inverter is best matched to a particular
application. The operator should review these items to see which are applicable.
All items described as settable or adjustable have set points which can be accessed using the
system display. The default settings and ranges of adjustment are listed in the MATE3 menu tables which
begin on page 53 of this manual.
Inverting
This is the FX inverter’s primary task. The inverter converts DC voltage from batteries into AC voltage that
is usable by AC appliances or devices. It will continue to do this as long as the batteries have sufficient
energy. The batteries can be supplied or recharged from other sources, such as PV or alternator power.
The inverter’s design uses a transformer and a high-frequency H-Bridge FET module to achieve the
required high-wattage AC output. The inverter can deliver the rated wattage continuously at 25°C. The
maximum output is derated at temperatures exceeding 25°C. See page 43 for these wattages.
Measure the total load wattage so that it does not exceed the inverter’s capacity. The inverter cannot
maintain its AC voltage under an excessive load. It will shut down with a Low Output Voltage error.
900-0198-01-00 Rev A 13
Operation
V
DC and AC Voltages V
The FX inverter requires batteries to operate. Other sources may not maintain DC voltages that are
consistent enough for the inverter to operate reliably.

Do not substitute other DC sources in place of the batteries. High or irregular voltages
may damage the inverter. It is normal to use other DC sources with the batteries and
the inverter, but not in place of the batteries.
The following items will affect the inverter’s operation. These are only used when the inverter is
generating AC power on its own.
 Low Battery Cut-Out: This function prevents the inverter from draining the batteries completely. When the DC
voltage drops below a specified level for 5 minutes, the inverter will stop functioning. The MATE3 will give a Low
Battery V error. This is one of the error messages described on page 40. It appears as an event on the MATE3
system display.
This function is intended to protect both the batteries and the inverter’s output. (Continuing to invert on a low
DC voltage may produce a distorted waveform.) This item is adjustable.
 Low Battery Cut-In: The recovery point from Low Battery Cut-Out. When the DC voltage rises above this point
for 10 minutes, the error will clear and the inverter will resume functioning. This item is adjustable.
 Connecting an AC source for the inverter to charge the batteries will also clear a low battery error.
 Output Voltage: The AC output voltage can be adjusted within a limited range.
NOTE:
The inverter’s output frequency is 60 Hz. This is not adjustable.
 The inverter is also controlled by a high battery cut-out limit. If the DC voltage rises above this limit, the inverter
immediately stops functioning and gives a High Battery V error. The shutdown protects the inverter from
damage due to excessive DC voltage.
 The high battery cut-out voltages for each model are shown in Table 16 on page 47. This voltage is not a changeable
set point.
 If the voltage drops below this point, the inverter automatically recovers.
 This is one of the errors on page 40. It appears as an event on the MATE3 system display.
The low battery and high battery functions are summarized in Table 16 on page 47.
Search
An automated search circuit is available to minimize the power draw when no loads are present. When
enabled, the inverter does not always deliver full output. The output is reduced to brief pulses with a
delay between them. These pulses are sent down the output lines to see if a resistance is present.
Basically, the pulses “search” for a load. If a load is detected on the output, the inverter’s output increases
to full voltage so that it can power the load. When the load is turned off, the inverter “goes to sleep” and
begins searching again.
Search mode sensitivity is adjusted with the Sensitivity menu item. See the menu tables, which begin on
page 53, for the location of this item. The sensitivity is adjusted in small increments which are measured
in fractions of one ampere.
14 900-0198-01-00 Rev A
Operation
NOTE:
Increment sizes are difficult to define due to varying load characteristics. However, the
default setting, 6 increments, is approximately sufficient to detect the load of one
compact fluorescent light (CFL). A load which draws this amount or greater will “wake
up” the inverter.
 Search mode is not particularly useful with loads requiring continuous power. (These loads include clocks,
answering machines, and similar devices.) “Sleep” operation with these loads is simply a power interruption or
nuisance shutdown.
 Search mode may not be useful with loads that are critical or are intentionally operated a large portion of the
time even if they are not continuous. (These loads include computers and similar devices.) The inverter may
“sleep” so rarely that the mode has no benefit.
 Some devices may not be easily detected by Search mode.
Search mode is ideal for use in small systems where it is critical to conserve battery capacity and avoid idle
draw or “ghost” loads.
To set up Search mode for use:
1. Turn off all loads.
2. Activate Search mode with the system display. The inverter should “sleep” with a flashing green STATUS
INVERTER indicator. See page 12.
3. Determine the smallest load that is to be used and turn it on.
4. If the load operates, the inverter is active and is producing power. No further adjustments are needed.
5. If the inverter does not produce power and continues to “sleep”, the sensitivity is set too high. Turn the load off
and lower the Sensitivity menu item. Turn on the load and test whether the inverter activates.
6. Repeat step 5 as needed until turning on the load also reliably activates the inverter.
The pulse duration and the delay both have a time period that is measured in AC cycles. These two items,
Pulse Length and Pulse Spacing, are adjustable in the same menu as Sensitivity. If Sensitivity does not
achieve the desired results, it may be useful to perform similar adjustments on these items.
Input
When the input terminals are connected to a stable AC source, the FX inverter will synchronize itself with
that source and use it as the primary source of AC power. Its transfer relay will engage, linking the AC
source directly with the inverter’s output. It can also use the source to charge batteries. (See Battery
Charging on page 18.)
 The loads powered by the inverter must not exceed the size of the inverter’s transfer relay.

Current draw in excess of the transfer relay rating can damage the transfer relay. This
damage is not covered by warranty. Use protective devices of appropriate size.
 The inverter has a single AC input. However, it has two sets of AC source settings. With an external transfer
switch, the inverter can be used on more than one AC source. It is common to use shore (utility grid) power and a
generator. Other combinations are possible.
900-0198-01-00 Rev A 15
Operation
AC Current Settings A
A
The AC current settings, Grid Input AC Limit and Gen Input AC Limit, control the amount of current that
the inverter draws from the source. Adjust these settings to match the input circuit breakers.
 The adjustment is meant to protect a generator or shore supply that cannot supply enough current for both
charging and loads. If the combined charging and loads exceed the setting, the inverter will reduce its charge
rate and give priority to the loads. If the loads exceed this number on their own, the charge rate will be reduced
to zero.
 The inverter’s battery charger has individual settings. However, the AC Limit settings can also limit the charging
or selling current.
 The AC input current is used to power both loads and battery charging. The combined amount should not
exceed the size of the AC overcurrent device or AC source. These devices should be sized appropriately during
planning and installation of the inverter system.
 If multiple parallel inverters are installed with an AC source of limited amperage, the total combined amperage
settings for all units must be less than the AC input circuit. The MATE3 Configuration Wizard can perform this
calculation. However, the inverters do not perform this calculation. If the Wizard or similar tools are not used,
divide the input size by the number of inverters and assign an equal part of the amperage to each port.
AC Source Acceptance
The input source must meet the following specifications to be accepted.
 Voltage: 108 to 140 Vac
 Frequency: 54 to 66 Hz
See the menu tables which begin on page 48 for voltage programming information.
When these conditions are met, the inverter will close its transfer relay and accept the input source. This
occurs after a delay which is specified below. If the conditions are not met, the inverter will not accept the
source. If it was previously accepted and then rejected, the inverter will open the relay and return to
inverting power from the batteries. This occurs after a specified transfer delay, which is an adjustable
menu item.
 The voltage limits can be adjusted to allow (or exclude) a source with weak or irregular voltages.
These items are adjustable in the appropriate menu of the MATE3 (Grid AC Input Mode and Limits or
Gen AC Input Mode and Limits). The settings are titled Voltage Limit Lower and Upper. There can be side
effects to changing the range of allowed voltages.
 Each of the AC input selections has a settable Connect Delay. This is intended as a warmup period which allows
an input source to stabilize before connection.
 The default setting for the Grid selection is 0.2 minutes (12 seconds).
 The default setting for the Gen selection is 0.5 minutes (30 seconds).
These items are adjustable in the appropriate menu of the MATE3 (Grid AC Input Mode and Limits or Gen AC Input
Mode and Limits).
NOTE:
Several items external to the inverter may prevent the inverter from accepting AC
power even if electrical conditions are met. An example is the MATE3’s AC INPUT hot
key menu, which can disconnect all inverters when set to Drop.
16 900-0198-01-00 Rev A
Operation
Multiple Inverters
In a stacked system, whenever the master inverter senses acceptable input, it orders all other inverters to
transfer to the AC source. The other inverters do not use their own input readings to transfer. It is
expected that the AC source delivers input (in the appropriate phase) to all inverters.
 If a slave inverter does not sense acceptable input, it will not transfer, but also will not invert. The slave will have
no output. It also will display Phase Loss Error.
Generator Input
A generator should be sized to provide enough power for all inverters, both for loads and for battery
charging. The generator’s voltage and frequency must match the inverter’s acceptance settings.
It is usually recommended that the generator be sized at twice the wattage of the inverter system. Many
generators may not be able to maintain AC voltage or frequency for long periods of time if they are loaded
more than 80% of rated capacity.
The generator is required to have a stable output before its power is accepted by the inverter. Some
generators with less stable or uneven outputs may not be accepted. The use of the Generator input
mode may assist with this problem.
Transfer
The FX inverter uses a transfer relay to alternate between the states of inverting and of accepting an AC
source. Until the relay energizes, the output terminals are electrically isolated from the input. When it
closes, the input and output terminals become electrically common. When the relay changes states, the
physical transfer delay is approximately 25 milliseconds.

Current draw in excess of the transfer relay rating can damage the transfer relay. This
damage is not covered by warranty. Use protective devices of appropriate size.
The relay contacts are limited to 30 amps per phase. The continuous loads on that output should never
exceed this number. When connected to an AC source, the FX inverter cannot limit the load current. An
overload condition is possible.
The inverter does not filter or actively condition the AC source. The voltage and power quality received by
the output loads is the same as that of the source. If the voltage or quality do not meet the inverter’s input
requirements, it will disconnect and return to the inverting mode.
NOTES:
 To ensure a smoother transition, it may be advisable to raise the inverter’s lower acceptance limit. The default
setting is 108 Vac. A higher setting will cause the inverter to transfer sooner in the event of a quality problem.
 If the AC source meets the inverter’s requirements but is irregular, any fluctuations will be transferred to the
loads. If the loads are sensitive, it may be necessary to improve the quality of the AC source.
If the charging function is turned off, the inverter will transfer power from the source but will not use it to
charge. If the inverting function is turned off, the inverter will transfer (“pass through”) the source power
when connected, but will not invert when the source is removed.
900-0198-01-00 Rev A 17
Operation
Battery Charging
IMPORTANT:
Battery charger settings need to be correct for a given battery type. Always follow battery
manufacturer recommendations. Making incorrect settings, or leaving them at factory default
settings, may cause the batteries to be undercharged or overcharged.
Charge Current
Batteries or battery banks usually have a recommended limit on the maximum current used for charging.
Often this is calculated as a percentage or fraction of the battery capacity, represented by “C”. For
example, C/5 would be a DC amperage figure that is 1/5 of the total amp-hours of the bank.
Any chargers must be set so that the peak charge current does not exceed the recommended battery
maximum. If multiple chargers are present (including other types of chargers besides the inverter), this
calculation must accommodate the total combined current. The FX charger may need to be set at less
than maximum. The system display can be used to change charger settings.
IMPORTANT:
Although the recommended current is generally represented in DC amperes (Adc), the Charger
AC Limit setting is measured in AC amperes (Aac), which use a different scale. To convert the
DC current into a usable AC figure, divide the DC figure by the following number (based on
inverter voltage) and round up. The result can be used as a charger setting for the FX inverter.
12-volt inverters: Divide by 10
24-volt inverters: Divide by 5
32-volt inverters: Divide by 3.33
Examples:
1) Bank consists of 8 x L16 FLA batteries in series for a 48-volt system. Recommended
maximum charge current is 75 Adc. (75 ÷ 2.5 = 30 Aac)
2) Bank consists of 6 x OutBack EnergyCell 200RE VRLA batteries in series/parallel for a 24-volt
system. Recommended maximum charge current is 45 Adc. (45 ÷ 5 = 9 Aac)
The maximum DC charge rate for FX models is specified in Table 9 on page 43. The actual Charger
AC Limit setting is available in the AC Input and Current Limit menu of the MATE3 system display.
(See the menu tables which begin on page 53.) These numbers are also summarized in Table 2.
NOTE: This table does not match the calculations above due to other factors in charging.
Table 2 Charge Currents for FX and VFX Mobile Models
Model Maximum DC Output (sent to battery) Maximum AC Input (used from source)
FX2012MT 80 Adc 12 Aac
FX2024M 40 Adc 12 Aac
VFX2812M 125 Adc 16 Aac
18 900-0198-01-00 Rev A
Operation
Charge Current for Multiple Inverters

If FX inverters are stacked, the master inverter Charger AC Limit setting is used by all other inverters.
Divide the total AC current by the number of chargers used and program the master with the result. The
master will operate all chargers with this setting to achieve the maximum total charge current. The
system display has a global Charger Control command of On which enables all available chargers.
Limiting Charge Current (Multiple Inverters)
It is not advisable to set Charger AC Limit less than 12 Aac in a stacked system. The Power Save function
requires the master to activates the slave chargers in sequence only when the charge current exceeds
11 Aac. If the setting is less than 12, Power Save will not activate any other chargers.
For more information on this function, see the Power Save section beginning on page 28.
Charge Cycle
FX and VFX mobile inverters use a “three-stage” battery charging process with Bulk, Absorption, and Float
stages. These stages follow a series of steps which are shown on graphs and described beginning below.
The inverter’s factory default settings are intended for three-stage charging of lead-acid batteries.
Charging Graphs
When the charger is set to <Auto> using the system display, the charger automatically progresses
through a three-stage cycle. Upon completion, the charger switches between Float stage and Silent mode
as described on page 21. This is often selected to maintain batteries from shore power.
Figure 5 shows the progression of steps of the <Auto> charging cycle.
Voltage
No Charge Bulk Absorption Silent ReFloat Float Silent ReFloat Float Silent Refloat
Absorption
Set Point
Float
Set Point
Re-Float
Set Point
Time
Inverter now charging to a new set point Inverter has reached the charging set point
Inverter completed charging; the previous set point is no longer in use
Figure 5 Charging Stages (Auto Setting)
When the charger is set to <On> using the system display, the charger automatically progresses through a
three-stage cycle. However, this setting eliminates the Silent and Refloat steps. The charger remains in
Float continuously. The Float stage lasts until the AC source is removed. This is often selected when
charging from an automatic generator which shuts down at the Float stage.
Figure 6 on the next page shows the progression of steps of the <On> charging cycle.
900-0198-01-00 Rev A 19
Operation
Voltage
No Charge Bulk Absorption Float No Charge (Source Removed)
Absorption
Set Point
Float
Set Point
Time
Inverter now charging to a new set point Inverter has reached the charging set point
Figure 6 Charging Stages (On Setting)
Charging Steps
The following items describe the operation and intended use for each individual charging step as shown
in the graphs. Note that some charging cycles may not follow this exact sequence, including cycles which
were previously interrupted.
See page 22 for a description of multiple cycles when the charger is restarted after completion. This page
also describes multiple cycles when the charger is restarted after being interrupted.
For multiple inverters:
The charging of stacked inverters is synchronized and is governed by the master. The charger settings of
all other inverters are ignored.
No Charging
If the inverter is not charging, several conditions may apply:
 The unit is not connected to a qualified AC source. If a generator is present, it may not be running.
 The unit is connected to an AC source but the charger has been turned off.
Bulk Stage
This is the first stage in the three-stage charge cycle. It is a constant-current stage which drives the battery
voltage up. This stage typically leaves the batteries at 75% to 90% of their capacity, depending on the
battery type, the exact charger setting, and other conditions.
Voltage Used: Absorb Voltage setting.
Default Set Point (nominal voltage): 14.4 Vdc (12-volt). This is multiplied accordingly for inverters of
other voltages.
The initial DC current may be as high as the charger’s maximum current, depending on conditions.
The current will begin at a high level, but will tend to drop slightly as the voltage rises. This is not a
reduction in charging. It can be viewed as a wattage “tradeoff”. The actual kilowatts used by the charger
are shown in the MATE3 Inverter menu. The reading is usually consistent at this stage. (See page 35.)
20 900-0198-01-00 Rev A
Operation
To skip this step: Setting Absorb Voltage equal to Float Voltage causes the charger to proceed through
the normal three-stage cycle, but at a single voltage. Setting Absorb Time to 0 causes the charger to skip
both the Bulk and Absorption stages and proceed directly to the constant-current Refloat stage. This may
not be desired if the intent is to include the Bulk stage but skip Absorption.
Absorption Stage
This is the second stage of charging. It is a constant-voltage stage. Current varies as needed to maintain
the voltage, but will typically decrease to a very low number over time. This leaves the batteries at
essentially 100% of capacity.
Voltage Used: Absorb Voltage setting. For the three-stage cycle to proceed normally, this setting
should be kept higher than the Float Voltage and Re-Bulk Voltage settings.
Time limit: Absorb Time setting. The charger does not necessarily run through its full duration if it
retained time from a previous charge cycle. The timer counts down from the inception of the Absorption
stage until it reaches zero. The time remaining can be viewed in the system display.
The Absorption timer resets to its maximum amount when AC power is disconnected and reconnected. It
only goes to zero if the timer runs out during the Absorption stage, or if an external STOP BULK command
is sent. In all other cases it retains any remaining time.
To skip this step: Setting Absorb Time to a very short duration causes the charger to spend minimal
time in Absorption once the Bulk stage is complete. Setting Absorb Time to zero will cause the charger to
skip both the Bulk and Absorption stages and proceed directly to the constant-current Refloat stage. This
may not be desired if the intent is to skip Absorption but retain the Bulk stage.
Silent
This is not a charging stage, but a quiescent period between stages. The inverter remains on the AC
source, but the charger is inactive. When the charger is set to <Auto> in the system display, it enters this
condition upon completing a timed stage such as Absorption, Float, or Equalize.
In Silent, the batteries are not in significant use by the inverter, but they are also not being charged. The
voltage will naturally decrease when not maintained by another means such as a charger or alternator.
The term “Silent” is also used in an unrelated context regarding Power Save levels. See page 28.
Voltage Used: Re-Float Voltage setting. When the battery voltage decreases to this point, the charger
becomes active again.
other voltages.
To skip this step: Setting the charger to <On> in the system display makes the charger remain in Float
continuously so that it does not proceed through the Silent, Bulk, Absorption, or Float timer steps.
Float Stage
This is the third stage of charging. It is sometimes known as maintenance charging. Float stage balances
the batteries’ tendency to self-discharge (as well as balancing the draw of any other DC loads). It
maintains the batteries at 100% of capacity.
Voltage Used: Float Voltage setting. For the charger to work normally, this setting needs to be higher
than the Re-Float Voltage setting.
other voltages.
900-0198-01-00 Rev A 21
Operation
The charger may perform two functions during Float. Both are called Float in the system display. They are
defined here as Refloat and Float.
Refloat
Refloat is a constant-current function. The initial DC current may be as high as the charger’s maximum
current, depending on conditions. This stage is similar to Bulk, except that the charger uses the Float
Voltage setting as noted above. The charger delivers current until the batteries reach this value.
Float
Float is a constant-voltage function. The current varies as needed to maintain Float Voltage, but typically
drops to a low number. This stage is similar to Absorption, except that the voltage is different.
Time limit: Float Time setting. The charger will go Silent once the timer has expired (if another stage is
not still in progress.) The Float timer is reset to its maximum amount whenever the batteries decrease to
the Re-Float Voltage setting.
NOTE:
The Float timer begins running any time the battery voltage exceeds the Float Voltage
set point. This usually means that it begins running during the Bulk stage, once the
voltage rises above that level. Often the timer will expire before the bulk and
absorption stages are complete. (This will occur if the Float Time setting is less than
the total of the bulk and absorption stages.) The charger will not enter Refloat or Float
but will go directly to Silent. The charger only spends time in Float stage if the timer
is still running.
To skip this step: Decreasing the Float Time setting to zero causes the inverter to enter Silent as soon as
the absorption stage is complete. The inverter will perform neither the constant-current Refloat nor the
constant-voltage Float.
Setting Float Voltage equal to the Absorb Voltage level causes the charger to proceed through the
normal three-stage cycle, but at a single voltage.
ALSO: Setting the charger to <On> in the system display causes the charger to remain in Float
continuously so that the Float timer no longer applies. (The charger also skips Bulk, Absorption, and Silent.)
The charger can still begin a single three-stage charge if the criteria are met, after which it will return to
continuous Float.
Silent
Following the expiration of the Float timer, the unit enters (or re-enters) the Silent stage. The unit remains
connected to the AC source, but the charger is inactive. The unit will continue cycling between Float and
Silent until the AC source is lost or a new charge begins.
New Charging Cycle

If the AC source is lost or disconnected, the unit will return to inverting mode if enabled. The battery
voltage will begin to decrease due to loads or natural loss. When the AC source is restored, the inverter
will return to the charging cycle.
The Absorb Time setting is reset to its maximum amount whenever the AC source (shore power or
generator) is reconnected. The three-stage cycle starts over from the beginning.
22 900-0198-01-00 Rev A
Operation
Equalization
Equalization is a controlled overcharge that is part of regular battery maintenance. Equalization brings the
batteries to a much higher voltage than usual and maintains this high voltage for a period of time. This
has the result of removing inert lead sulfate compounds from the battery plates. It also reduces
stratification by circulating the electrolyte.
Equalization follows the same pattern as standard three-stage charging, as shown in the figures on page
19. However, instead of the Absorption voltage and time set points, it is controlled by the Equalize
Voltage and Equalize Time settings in the system display.
This process must be started manually using the system display. The inverter cannot be programmed for
automatic battery equalization. This is a safety measure.
Equalization is normally performed only on flooded lead-acid batteries. The schedule for equalization
varies with battery use and type, but it is usually performed every few months. If performed correctly, this
process can extend battery life by a considerable amount.
Equalization is not normally performed on nickel-technology batteries or any sort of sealed battery.
CAUTION: Battery Damage

 Do not equalize OutBack EnergyCell batteries of any model.
 Do not equalize any sealed battery types (VRLA, AGM, Gel, or other) unless
approved by the manufacturer. Some batteries may suffer severe damage
from equalization.
 Contact the battery manufacturer for recommendations on equalization
voltage, duration, schedule, and/or advisability. Always follow
manufacturer recommendations for equalization.
Battery Temperature Compensation

Battery performance will change when the temperature varies above or below room temperature (77°F or
25°C). Temperature compensation is a process that adjusts battery charging to correct for these changes.
When a battery is cooler than room temperature, its internal resistance goes up and the voltage changes
more quickly. This makes it easier for the charger to reach its voltage set points. However, while
accomplishing this process, it will not deliver all the current that the battery requires. As a result, the
battery will tend to be undercharged.
Conversely, when a battery is warmer than room temperature, its internal resistance goes down and the
voltage changes more slowly. This makes it harder for the charger to reach its voltage set points. It will
continue to deliver energy as time passes until the charging set points are reached. However, this tends to
be far more than the battery requires, meaning it will tend to be overcharged.
The FX inverter, when equipped with the Remote Temperature Sensor (RTS) will compensate for changes
in temperature. The RTS is attached to a single battery near the center of the bank, to achieve a
representative temperature. The FX inverter has a designated port for installing the RTS.
If installed in a multiple-inverter system, only a single RTS is necessary. It must be plugged into the master
inverter and will automatically control the charging of all slaves and all charge controllers.
When charging, an inverter system with an RTS will adjust the charging voltage inversely with changes in
temperature. It will increase the charge voltage by 5 mV for every decrease of 1 degree Celsius per
battery cell. Similarly, it will decrease the voltage 5 mV for every increase of 1 degree Celsius per cell.
900-0198-01-00 Rev A 23
Operation
Compensation affects the Absorption, Float, and Equalization set points. The Re-Float Voltage set point
is not temperature compensated. Note that the Equalization set points are not compensated in OutBack
charge controllers.
Table 3 Temperature Compensation
Nominal Number of Compensation Maximum

Voltage 2-Volt Cells (when above or below 25°C) Compensation
12 Vdc 6 0.03 volts per degree C ± 0.6 Vdc

EXAMPLES:
 A 12 Vdc system with batteries at 10°C will compensate its charging to 0.45 Vdc higher than the set points.
 A 12 Vdc system with batteries at 35°C will compensate its charging to 0.3 Vdc lower than the set points.
Slope
Some batteries require different amounts of compensation. The OutBack FLEXmax Extreme charge
controller has an adjustable rate of compensation (“slope”) and is not limited to 5 mV. The FLEXmax
Extreme can be networked with the inverter with the HUB Communications Manager. If this is done, the
inverter can import the slope setting from the FLEXmax Extreme charge controller.
NOTE:
Temperature compensation only applies to the battery charging function. Other set
points in the inverter, such as the AUX functions, are not compensated for temperature.
24 900-0198-01-00 Rev A
Operation
Multiple-Inverter Installations (Stacking)

Multiple inverters in a single system can support larger loads than a single inverter. Installing inverters in
this configuration is called “stacking”. Stacking refers to how inverters are wired within the system and
programmed to coordinate activity. Stacking allows inverters to work together as one system.
Each inverter is programmed to power an individual phase of the system and to operate at certain times.
This order is assigned using a system display such as the OutBack MATE, MATE2, or MATE3. FX stacking
configurations include “classic series”, “OutBack series”, “parallel”, “series/parallel”, and “three-phase”.
Each inverter needs to be assigned a status — “master” or “slave”. The master provides the primary (L1)
output. Slave inverters provide assistance when a master on any output cannot power the loads alone. See
the FX Mobile Series Inverter/Charger Installation Manual for more information.
Stacking requires CAT5 non-crossover cable used with an OutBack HUB Communications Manager (either the
HUB4 or the HUB10.3).
The inverter on each port must be programmed with a status and stacking value. Different HUB products use
different port assignments. There are usually other specialized instructions during installation.
An AC source for a split-phase or three-phase system should provide input to all inverters on all phases. A
slave inverter will give a Phase Loss warning if it is not supplied. (See pages 17 and 41.)
HUB10.3
Communications
Additional Ports Port 1 MATE
Manager
MATE System Display MATE2 System Display MATE3 System Display
Figure 7 OutBack HUB10.3, MATE, MATE2 , and MATE3
IMPORTANT:
 The master inverter must always be connected to Port 1 on the HUB product. Connecting it
elsewhere, or connecting a slave to Port 1, will result in backfeed or output voltage errors
which will shut the system down immediately.
 All stacked inverters must be the same model and firmware revision.
 Installing multiple inverters without stacking them (or stacking them incorrectly) will result
in similar errors and shutdown.
 Although stacking allows greater capacity, the loads, wiring, and overcurrent devices must
still be sized appropriately. Additional terminations or bus bars may be required.
Overloading may cause circuit breakers to open or inverters to shut down.
900-0198-01-00 Rev A 25
Operation
Stacking Configurations
Each inverter must be assigned a particular mode in the Stack Mode menu. In the figures for each
configuration below, the mode names are shown next to each inverter.
For example, Figure 8 shows 1-2phase Master for the first (L1) inverter in a “classic” series-stacked system.
The designation for the L2 inverter is Classic Slave. On page 27, Figure 10 shows 1-2phase Master for the
first inverter in a parallel-stacked system. It shows OB Slave L1 for the remaining inverters, which share
the same output.
Classic Series Stacking (Dual-Stack)

In series stacking, two inverters create two separate 120 Vac output phases. One inverter is the master.
The other is a slave that is intentionally 180° out of phase with the master. Each of these outputs can be
used to power a separate set of 120 Vac loads. Collectively they form a “split-phase” configuration which
produces 240 Vac. “Classic” series stacking is the simplest way to achieve this output.
 The 120 Vac loads on each output cannot exceed a given inverter’s wattage. The second inverter cannot assist.
 Only two inverters, one per output, may be classic series stacked.
LOAD
1-2phase Master (L1)

2.0 kVA
120 Vac
2.0 kVA 120 Vac
4.0 kVA
OR
240 Vac
Classic Slave (L2)
2.0 kVA
120 Vac
2.0 kVA 120 Vac
Figure 8 Example of Classic Series Stacking Arrangement
OutBack Series Stacking (Dual-Stack)

In OutBack’s unique series stacking, two inverters create two separate 120 Vac output phases in a “split-
phase” configuration which produces 240 Vac. One inverter is the master. The other is a slave that is
intentionally 180° out of phase with the master. Each of these outputs can be used to power a separate
set of 120 Vac loads. However, the output loads are balanced with the FW-X240 autotransformer.
 The slave output is controlled directly by the master and cannot operate independently.
 In the event of a load imbalance in a 120/240 Vac system, the FW-X240 transformer can transfer power from one
output to the other. The transfer balances the loads on each inverter. It also allows heavy 120 Vac loads on
either output to use the full power of both inverters. (The loads in Figure 9 are marked “2+ kVA” per output. This
means the power of a 2 kVA inverter is assisted by the other output.)
 The slave can go into Power Save mode when not in use. The FW-X240 autotransformer allows the master to
power loads on either output. This reduces idle power consumption and improves system efficiency.
 Additional inverters can be added for combination series/parallel operation. See page 28.
26 900-0198-01-00 Rev A
Operation
LOAD PANEL
OB Slave L2
2+ kVA
2.0 kVA 120 Vac 120 Vac
FW-X240
OR 4.0 kVA
240 Vac
1-2phase
Master
2+ kVA
2.0 kVA 120 Vac 120 Vac
Figure 9 Example of OutBack Series Stacking Arrangement
Parallel Stacking (Dual-Stack and Larger)

In parallel stacking, two or more inverters are stacked to create a single, common set of AC outputs.
 All inverters share a common input (AC source). The inverters run loads on a common output bus. The master
inverter provides the primary output. The slaves are connected to the same output and assist the master.
 The slave outputs are controlled directly by the master and cannot operate independently.
 Slave inverters can go into Power Save mode when not in use. The master will activate individual slaves based on
load demand. This reduces idle power consumption and improves system efficiency.
 Up to ten inverters may be installed in a parallel arrangement.
LOAD
PANEL
1-2phase Master OB Slave L1 OB Slave L1
6.0 kVA
120 Vac
2.0 kVA 120 Vac 2.0 kVA 120 Vac 2.0 kVA 120 Vac
Figure 10 Example of Parallel Stacking Arrangement (Three Inverters)
900-0198-01-00 Rev A 27
Operation
Series/Parallel Stacking (Quad-Stack or Larger)

In series/parallel stacking, inverters use OutBack series stacking create separate 120 Vac output phases
and 240 Vac collectively. However, in this configuration, each output has parallel inverters. One output
contains the master; the other uses a slave. Each output has at least one additional slave.
 The 120 Vac loads on each output can be sized to the wattage of multiple inverters. They can be powered by all
the inverters on that output. They can also be assisted by the other output.
 The slave outputs cannot operate independently. The slaves can go into Power Save mode when not in use.
 Up to ten inverters may be installed in a series/parallel arrangement.
OB Slave L1 OB Slave LOAD
6+ kVA
3.0 kVA 120 Vac 3.0 kVA 120 Vac 120 Vac
FW-X240
OR 12.0 kVA
240 Vac
6+ kVA
120 Vac
3.0 kVA 120 Vac 3.0 kVA 120 Vac
1-2phase OB Slave L2
Figure 11 Example of Series/Parallel Stacking Arrangement (Four Inverters)
Three-Phase Stacking
In three-phase stacking, inverters create three separate 120 Vac output phases in a wye configuration.
 The output of each inverter is 120° out of phase from the others. Any two outputs produce 208 Vac between
them. The outputs can be used to power three-phase loads when all inverters work together.
 The 120 Vac loads on each output cannot exceed a given inverter’s wattage. The other outputs cannot assist.
 Only three inverters, one per phase, may be installed in a three-phase arrangement.
LOAD
Master
2.0 kVA 120 Vac 2.0 kVA
120 Vac
B Phase Master
2.0 kVA 120 Vac 2.0 kVA OR 6.0 kVA
120 Vac 208 Vac
C Phase Master
2.0 kVA
2.0 kVA 120 Vac
120 Vac
Figure 12 Example of Three-Phase Stacking Arrangement (Three Inverters)

28 900-0198-01-00 Rev A
Operation
Power Save
Each FX inverter consumes 34 watts of idle power while it remains on, even if it is not actively inverting or
charging. The Power Save function allows the option to put part of a parallel system into a quiescent state
known as Silent mode. This mode minimizes the idle consumption. The inverters will come on again
when the loads require power. (The term “Silent” is also used in an unrelated context during battery
charging. See page 21.)
 When the load increases by 12 Aac, the master inverter activates an additional slave inverter for assistance. When
the load decreases to 4 Aac or less (as detected by the master), the slave is deactivated and returns to Silent
mode. Each additional load increments of 12 Aac activates an additional slave.
 The order in which slaves activate (or return to Silent mode) is controlled by programming in the system display.
The inverters are given a “rank”, or level number. Lower rank numbers activate when lesser loads are applied.
Higher ranks only activate when the load increases to a high level.
 The lowest-ranked inverters, particularly the master, do not enter Silent mode. They remain active unless
specifically turned off. These inverters can still enter Search mode.
Master Slave 1 Slave 2 Slave 3
Minimal load On Off Off Off

Increasing load On On Off Off
High load On On On Off
Maximum load On On On On
Figure 13 Power Save Levels and Loads

The actual watt and ampere thresholds for activating each model are depicted on the following pages.
When using the MATE3 System Display:
It is advisable to use the MATE3 Configuration Wizard to set up Power Save Levels.
To set these items manually:
The system display uses Power Save Level selections to assign ranks to the inverter on each port. The
screen reads Master or Slave Power Save Level, depending on the inverter’s stacking designation.
 Master Power Save Level appears on an inverter which is set as master (the default setting). The range of rank
numbers is 0 to 10. The default value is 0. The master is normally left at this value.
 The Master Power Save Level function is used for the master inverter on Port 1. It is also used for any subphase
masters in a series or three-phase system. The ranking of a subphase master is treated the same as the master. If the
master is set at 0, subphase masters should also be 0.
 Slave Power Save Level appears on an inverter which is set as slave. The range of rank numbers is 1 to 10. (The
default value for all ports is 1.)
The ranks are prioritized so that lower-numbered ranks turn on sooner and higher ranks turn on later.
The lowest-ranked inverter does not go silent and remains on unless ordered otherwise. The
lowest-ranked inverter is expected to be the master. The priorities are the same across both screens. If
Port 1 (master) is set at 0 and Port 2 (slave) is set at 1, the slave will turn on later. Since the Master item is
the only one that goes to 0, it is easy to ensure that all slave inverters go silent.
900-0198-01-00 Rev A 29
Operation
NOTE:
The stacking designations also control which ports are used on the HUB
communications manager. The master inverter must be plugged into port 1. Other
ports and jumper positions vary with model and stacking configuration.
IMPORTANT:
Set the master rank at 0 and arrange the slave ranks in order (1, 2, 3, 4, etc.). Another
order may defeat the purpose of Power Save mode. Leaving the master at 0 makes
power available from the master; the other inverters should not be active. If a slave is
ranked lower (prioritized higher) than the master, that slave will not go silent.
NOTE: Disregard this rule if the installation requires some slaves continuously active.
IMPORTANT:
Do not give slave inverters the same rank numbers. If, for example, multiple slaves were
all ranked at 1, they would all come on at the same time. Once they came on, the
divided load would cause the master to detect a minimal load on its output, so it would
shut off all the slaves, at which point the master would read a high load again. This
could quickly escalate into a rapid on/off cycling of inverters and could cause long-term
system problems.
NOTE: Power Save is used by the battery chargers of stacked systems with slave inverters. Not all
chargers are activated immediately. Initially the master is the only active charger. The batteries will
absorb current up to the maximum for all chargers. When the batteries (and the master) draw more than
12 Aac, the master will turn on the first slave charger. The batteries will absorb that additional current and
more. The master will then turn on more slaves until all active chargers are operating.
If the master Charger AC Limit is turned to 11 or less, it will not turn on any slaves and will remain the only
charger. For more information on charging with stacked inverters, see page 19.
Figure 14 shows a system of four FX2012MT inverters (the master and three slaves). These inverters are in
a parallel system with a common load bus.
Master Slave 1 Slave 2 Slave 3

Port 1 Port 2 Port 3 Port 4
Master Power Save = 0 Slave Power Save = 1 Slave Power Save = 2 Slave Power Save = 3
<12 Aac On Off Off Off

12 Aac On On Off Off
24 Aac On On On Off
36 Aac On On On On
16 Aac On On On Off
Figure 14 Power Save Priority (Parallel)

 The captions at the top indicate the ranking of each unit.
 The captions also show the port assignments on the HUB4 Communications Manager (1 through 4).
 The notations at the bottom show how the units are activated in sequence as loads of 12 Aac are applied.
30 900-0198-01-00 Rev A
Operation
 The fourth line shows that loads of 36 Aac or more (approximately 4 to 4.5 kW) are present on the system. This
load causes all four inverters to be activated.
 The last line shows that the loads are reduced to 16 Aac. Since this load is distributed among four inverters, the
master reads 4 Aac, the lower threshold for Power Save. This causes one slave to enter Silent mode. The 16 Aac are
distributed among the remaining three inverters. If the loads decreased to 12 Aac, a second slave would go silent.
Figure 15 shows a system of six FX2012MT inverters. In this example the inverters are stacked in an
OutBack series/parallel system with FW-X240 transformers. The master inverter is on the L1 output with
two slave inverters. The L2 output has three slave inverters.
 The captions at the top indicate the ranking of each inverter.
 The captions also show the port assignments on the HUB10.3 Communications Manager. The L1 inverters use
ports 1, 2, and 3. However, the HUB10.3 requires the L2 inverters to use ports 7, 8, and 9.
 The notations at the bottom show how the inverters are activated in sequence as loads are applied.
 The first line shows a load handled by the master alone.

 The second line shows a total load of 15 Aac, even though the load on the master has not changed. (This load is visible
to the master due to the balancing transformers.) The master turns on the first slave, L2 Slave 1 (Power Save Level 1).
 The third line shows an increasing load of 28 Aac. The master turns on two more inverters (Power Save Levels 2 and 3).
 The fourth line shows that loads of 36 Aac or more (approximately 4 to 4.5 kW) are present on both L1 and L2. This load
causes all six inverters to be activated.
 The last line shows that the total load is reduced to 25 Aac. The master turns off three inverters (Power Save Levels 3, 4,
and 5) and leaves three active.
L1 Master L1 Slave 1 L1 Slave 2 L2 Slave 1 L2 Slave 2 L2 Slave 3

Port 1 Port 2 Port 3 Port 7 Port 8 Port 9
Master Power Slave Power Slave Power Slave Power Slave Power Slave Power
Save = 0 Save = 2 Save = 4 Save = 1 Save = 3 Save = 5
L1 Load L2 Load
9 Aac On Off Off 0 Aac Off Off Off
9 Aac On Off Off 6 Aac On Off Off
15 Aac On On Off 13 Aac On On Off
36 Aac On On On 36 Aac On On On
16 Aac On On Off 9 Aac On Off Off
Figure 15 Power Save Priority (Split-Phase)
900-0198-01-00 Rev A 31
Operation
Auxiliary Terminals
The FX inverter has a 12V AUX output which can respond to different criteria and control many operations.
These terminals provide a 12 Vdc output that can deliver up to 0.7 Adc.
The AUX output has three states: continuous Off, continuous On, and Auto, which allows that output to
be activated using the automatic auxiliary functions. (All functions are defaulted to Auto.) These items are
based in the inverter and accessed using the system display. The system display and other devices also
have programming, such as AGS, that can control the AUX outputs. To avoid conflicts, the output should
be turned Off when the AGS function is active.
For the FX automatic functions, typical applications include signaling a generator to start, sending a fault
alarm signal, or running a small fan to ventilate the batteries. When considering these applications, plan
for both connection requirements and programming with the system display.
The AUX terminals have a series of set points which are used by various functions. Not all points are used
by all functions. Each mode description (below) will show the set points used by that function.
 Low DC voltage settings
 High DC voltage settings
 On delay settings, in increments of 0.1 minutes
 Off delay settings, in increments of 0.1 minutes
These settings are not temperature compensated. Compensation is only used for inverter battery charging.
There are nine functions, each geared toward a different application. They are summarized on page 34.
NOTE:
The AUX output is defaulted to Vent Fan. A sealed FX inverter with the Turbo Fan is
required to use the AUX output for fan control. In a single-inverter system, no other
functions can be used.
 Cool Fan activates the AUX output when the inverter reaches a high internal temperature. It is intended to
trigger a small external fan for additional cooling. See the Warning Troubleshooting table on page 41 for a
description of the fan criteria.
 This function does not have settable parameters.
 DC Divert activates the AUX output to divert (or “dump”) excess renewable energy to a DC load, such as a
resistor, a heater, or a fuel cell. This prevents overcharging of the batteries. This function can serve as rough
charge regulation for an external charging source.
 When battery voltage rises above a settable high voltage level, the AUX output is activated after a settable delay. The
AUX output controls a larger, external relay. When energized, the relay allows current to flow from the batteries to a
dedicated DC load. The resistor or load must be sized to dissipate all of the energy from the renewable source if
necessary. Diversion will turn off following a delay when a low DC voltage setting is reached.
 Settable parameters include:
 Low and high DC voltage
 On and off delay
 AC Divert activates the AUX output to divert (or “dump”) excess renewable energy to an AC load, usually an AC
device powered by the inverter itself. This prevents overcharging of the batteries. This function can serve as
rough charge regulation for an external charging source.
AUX output controls a larger relay, which allows current to flow from the batteries to a dedicated AC load when
energized. Diversion is usually used to regulate battery charging. The AC device is usually wired to the output or load
panel and must be left on. It must be sized to dissipate all of the energy from the renewable source if necessary.
Diversion will turn off following a delay when a low DC voltage setting is reached.
 The AUX output will automatically turn on to run the loads if the inverter accepts an AC source.
32 900-0198-01-00 Rev A
Operation
 Settable AC Divert parameters include:

 During variable conditions, the AUX output is triggered no more than once per minute (if voltage conditions are still
met). This prevents rapid nuisance cycling of the AC load.
 AC Divert should not be used as the sole source of battery regulation. If the inverter shuts down or fails, the batteries
could suffer severe damage. This function should be supported by an external regulator.
 If the inverter shuts down due to overload, the AUX output will also shut down. If the inverter load exceeds 30 Aac,
the AUX output will turn off to prevent an overload condition.
 If either the FETs or the capacitors become too hot, the AUX will turn off due to diminished inverter wattage.
 AC Drop activates the AUX output whenever the inverter disconnects from an AC source. It can activate a light or
alarm to show that the shore power is no longer present or that a generator has stopped. Alternately, it could be
used to show that the source has connected.
 Vent Fan activates the AUX output in response to a high DC (battery) voltage set point. It can run a small fan to
ventilate the battery compartment to eliminate gases that result from battery charging. When the voltage falls
below this set point for a settable delay period, the AUX output turns off. This is the default selection.
 High DC voltage
 Off delay
 Fault activates the AUX output when the inverter shuts down due to an error condition. (See page 40). It can
activate a light or alarm to show that the inverter has failed. With the appropriate devices, it could send an alarm
signal through a radio, pager, or telephone dialer.
 Gen Alert is used as a controller for an AC generator with a remote start feature, although it has limited
functionality. (The generator recharges batteries using the inverter’s battery charger.)
 The AUX output will activate to start the generator when the battery voltage falls to a low set point for a settable delay.
The AUX output is deactivated, shutting off the generator, once the battery voltage rises to a high voltage setting for a
settable delay period.
 Settable Gen Alert parameters include:
Gen Alert control logic is located in the inverter. It has the advantage of functioning when the system display is
removed. However, it may not completely charge the batteries and does not have all the advantages of the Advanced
Generator Start (AGS) function that is found in the system display. For many users, the AGS function may prove more
useful than Gen Alert. Gen Alert, however, could be used as a literal “Generator Alert”, a signal to the user to manually
start a generator.
 Load Shed can perform load management. It is intended to turn off designated loads during low battery periods
to conserve remaining battery power.
AUX output is used to energize a larger external relay (normally open) which is connected to non-vital loads. The AUX
output will be deactivated once the battery voltage falls below a low voltage setting for a settable delay period.
 Load Shed will turn off when the inverter enters a high-temperature condition or when the AC output voltage drops
below a specific AC voltage for more than 3 seconds. This limit is 15 volts below the setting of the inverter’s output
voltage. For the inverter’s default output voltage of 120 Vac, the limit is 105 Vac. The limit is not otherwise settable.
 Load Shed will turn off if the input current exceeds the Input AC Limit setting while the inverter is using an AC source.
900-0198-01-00 Rev A 33
Operation
 Remote activates the AUX when the inverter receives an external command from the system display or a similar
device. To prevent software conflicts, Remote should be selected when external functions such as AGS (see
below) are used.
The AUX functions are summarized in Table 4.
Table 4 Aux Mode Functions
Triggers Settable
Name Purpose
Start Stop Points
Cool Fan Runs fan to cool inverter  Internal sensor > 60°C  Internal sensor < 49°C None
DC Divert Turns on DC dump load to  High Vdc  Low Vdc  Low & high Vdc
prevent overcharging  On & Off delay
AC Divert Turns on AC dump load to  High Vdc  Low Vdc  Low & high Vdc
prevent overcharging  AC source accepted  High output load  On & Off delay
 High temperature
AC Drop Signals that the inverter has  AC source  AC source connected None
dropped an AC source disconnected
Vent Fan Runs fan to vent batteries  High Vdc  Below high Vdc  High Vdc
while charging  Off delay
Fault Signals that the inverter shut  Error present  Error cleared None
down due to error
Gen Alert Starts generator to charge  Low Vdc  High Vdc  Low & high Vdc
batteries  On & Off delay
Load Operates designated loads  High Vdc  Low Vdc  Low & high Vdc
Shed normally; turns off loads in  High temp  On & Off delay
severe conditions  Low output Vac
 High input Aac
Remote Allows external commands to  Gen start (example)  Gen stop (example) None internal
activate the AUX without
programming conflict
System Display-Based Functions (AGS)

A system display such as the OutBack MATE3 can provide functions not available in the inverter. The most
commonly used function is Advanced Generator Start, or AGS. It is summarized here to provide a better
idea of overall system capabilities.
As noted under Gen Alert, the system is capable of starting a generator. Gen Alert simply starts and stops
the generator based on battery voltage. For more advanced control, AGS utilizes the entire three-stage
charging cycle. It can start according to battery voltage, inverter load, time of day, and other criteria. AGS
has a quiet time application which restricts the generator from starting at inconvenient times.
Additional functions aside from AGS are also available.
The system display must be present for AGS and similar functions to operate. If a function is set up (or
already in operation) but the system display is removed, that function will not operate.
34 900-0198-01-00 Rev A
Metering
MATE3 Screens
The MATE, MATE2, and MATE3 system displays can each monitor the FX inverter and other networked
OutBack devices. Menu navigation for the MATE3 is depicted in this chapter.
From the Home screen, the <Inverter> “soft” key accesses the screens for monitoring the inverter.
Inverter Soft Key
Figure 16 Home Screen
Inverter Screen
The Inverter soft key opens a screen showing the inverter operating mode, battery voltage, and status of
several AC operations. The <Port> soft key will select other networked OutBack inverters, if present. The
<Next> soft key accesses the Battery screen.
Inverter Mode Charge Mode

Inverter Modes: Inverter Modes (slave):
 Inverting (see page 13)  Slave On
 Searching (see page 14)  Slave Off
 Charging (see Bulk on page 20)  Error
 Charger Off (see pages 17 and 20)
Charge Modes:
 Float (see page 21)
 BULK
 EQ (see page 23)
 FLOAT
 Silent (see page 21)
 EQ
 PassThru (see page 17)
 Error (see page 40)
 Off
Figure 17 Inverter Screens

Screen items:
 The upper left corner is the Inverter Mode (see above). When Charging is indicated, the Charge Mode specifies
the stage.
 Invert displays the kilowatts and AC amperage generated by the inverter. It may go to loads, or in a
grid-interactive system it may be sold back to the utility grid.
900-0198-01-00 Rev A 35
Metering
 Charge displays the kilowatts and AC amperage consumed for the inverter to charge the battery bank. This line
also shows the present charging stage.
 Load displays kilowatts and AC amperage consumed by devices on the inverter’s output. It can be the same
as Invert.
 Buy displays the kilowatts and AC amperage brought into the inverter’s input for both charging and loads. This
is usually a total of Charge and Load.
 Battery displays the uncompensated battery voltage.
 AC Out displays the AC voltage measured at the inverter’s output. If an AC source is present, this reading is
usually the same as AC In.
 AC In displays the AC voltage measured at the inverter’s input from an AC source. This number may be erratic or
inaccurate upon first connection until the inverter synchronizes with the input source.
 AUX displays the current status of the inverter’s Auxiliary (AUX) 12-volt output. (See page 31.)
 A diode symbol may appear to the left of the screen name to indicate “diode charging” mode. This is a mode that
allows fine control of charging, selling, and load support. It does not visibly affect operation.
The <Graph> soft key brings up a series of screens which plot various types of data over time on the
MATE3 screen.
Battery Screen
The <Next> soft key brings up a screen showing charger status, charger settings, and battery voltage and
temperature information.
NOTE: The charger settings cannot be adjusted on this screen.

An arrow will appear to the right of Absorb, Float, or Equalize
to indicate that the charger is in that stage. The arrow will not appear
if the charger is in the Bulk stage, or if it is inactive.
Figure 18 Battery Screen
Screen items:
 Actual displays the uncompensated battery voltage.
 Absorb displays the charger’s Absorption voltage setting. (See page 20.)
 Float displays the charger’s Float voltage setting. (See page 21.)
 Equalize displays the charger’s Equalization voltage setting. (See page 23.)
 Temp Comp displays the corrected battery voltage using temperature readings from the Remote Temperature
Sensor (RTS). If no RTS is present, Temp Comp and Actual will read the same. (See page 23.)
 Batt Temp displays the battery temperature in degrees Celsius as measured by the RTS. This reading is only valid
for port 1 on the HUB product. If other ports are selected, or if no RTS is present, the characters ### will be displayed.
 Re-Float displays the Re-Float setting which was programmed into the inverter’s charger. This is the voltage
used for the inverter to return from Silent mode to the float stage. (See page 21.)
The <Warn> and <Error> keys bring up screens with various fault information. See the next section.
36 900-0198-01-00 Rev A
Troubleshooting
Basic Troubleshooting
Table 5 is organized in order of common symptoms, with a series of possible causes. Each cause also
shows possible troubleshooting remedies, including system display checks where appropriate.
These instructions are for use by qualified personnel who meet all local and governmental code
requirements for licensing and training for the installation of electrical power systems with AC and DC
voltage up to 600 volts.
In troubleshooting, AC
voltages can be
measured at the
attachment screw for
each AC conductor.
Figure 19 AC Test Points
WARNING: Shock Hazard

During an error shutdown, the inverter’s output terminals are not live. However,
if the inverter recovers from a shutdown, the terminals will become live without
notice. Several error shutdowns can be recovered automatically, including Low
Battery V, High Battery V, and Over Temperature. See page 40.
Table 5 Troubleshooting
Symptom Possible Cause Possible Remedy
No DC voltage. Use a DC voltmeter to check the voltage directly on the DC

terminals. If not present, the problem is external. If present, the
inverter could be damaged. Contact OutBack Technical Support.2
Inverter ON/OFF jumper See the Installation Manual for the location of the jumper. Confirm
missing. the jumper is present. If missing, replace the jumper. Or follow the
Installation Manual instructions to install an external switch.
No AC output Inverter set to Off. MATE3 system display only: Set to On with the INVERTER hot key.
(will not invert). MATE /MATE2 system display only: Set to ON with the INV hot key.
NOTE: The ON/OFF jumper must be installed.
Inverter set to Search mode. If constant power is required:

MATE3 system display only: Set to On with the INVERTER hot key.
MATE /MATE2 system display only: Set to ON with the INV hot key.
If this setting was intentional, then no action is required.
2
See inside front cover of this manual.
900-0198-01-00 Rev A 37
Troubleshooting
Unit is slave and is in Silent MATE3 system display only: Check Power Save levels in the
One or more units mode. Inverter Stacking menu and test with loads.
have no output but MATE/MATE2 system display only: Check Power Save levels in the
others do (in multi- ADV/FX/STACK menu and test with loads.
inverter system). Determine if the inverter comes on at the appropriate levels.
No AC input. Check the AC voltage on the inverter’s input terminals. (See page
37.) If not present, the problem is external. If present, the inverter
could be damaged. Contact OutBack Technical Support.3
AC source does not meet MATE3 system display only: Check the Last AC Disconnect screen
requirements. (using the AC INPUT hot key and the Discon selection) for the
reason for disconnection.
MATE/MATE2 system display only: Check STATUS/FX/DISCON for
the reason for disconnection.
If the unit never originally connected, check the Warning menu.
Will not connect to Confirm source voltage and frequency.
the AC source.
Inverter was manually set to MATE3 system display only: Change the AC Input Control setting
disconnect from AC. from Drop to Use with the AC INPUT hot key.
MATE/MATE2 system display only: Change the AC Input Control
setting from Drop to Use with the AC IN hot key.
Grid use function has MATE, MATE2 or MATE3 system display only: If activated
disconnected from AC. prematurely, check the system display’s Grid Use Time settings
and the clock settings.
HBX or another grid use function may also be active. If more than
one function is active, the programming may conflict.
Charge complete or nearly Check the DC voltage and charging stage using the system
complete. display, if present. Confirm with DC voltmeter.
System display DC meter reads Check the DC voltage on the inverter’s DC terminals. If different
significantly higher than actual from the system display reading, the inverter could be damaged.
battery voltage. Otherwise check the DC voltage on the batteries with a voltmeter.
If different from the reading on the inverter, this could be a DC
connection problem.
Low charge rate.
High output loads. If total loads and charge exceed the AC input setting, charge rate
decreases to give priority to the loads. Turn off some of the
output loads and test the charge rate again.
High temperature. The inverter will reduce the current rate for charging and other
activities if the internal temperature exceeds a certain level.
Check temperature readings and allow the inverter to cool if
necessary. (See page 42.) External cooling may also be applied.
No AC input. See “Will not connect to AC” category.
Charger set to Off. MATE3 system display only: Check the Charger Mode screen with
the CHARGER hot key and set to On or Auto. (If this setting was
Will not charge. intentional, then no action is required.)
MATE /MATE2 system display only: Check the Charger Control
screen with the AC IN hot key and set to ON or AUTO.
3
38 900-0198-01-00 Rev A
Troubleshooting
Unusual and Inverter has not synchronized MATE3 system display only: The AC In reading accessed by the
different voltages on with input source. <Inverter> soft key may be erratic or inaccurate after initial
AC hot input lines. connection until the inverter has synchronized with the AC
source. This may require a short time.
Erratic AC source voltage. Check AC voltage on the AC HOT IN and AC NEUTRAL IN

terminals. (See page 37.) If not consistent, the problem is external.
MATE, MATE2, or MATE3 system display only: Source voltage may
have dipped low enough to crash a sensitive load before the
inverter could respond. The Grid or Gen AC Input Voltage Limits
may have been lowered for a problematic AC source. To make the
inverter respond sooner, raise the lower limit setting.
Inverter set to Search (Search The unit will take a moment to come out of Search after transfer.
Loads drop out or mode). If constant power is required:
crash during transfer. MATE3 system display only: Set to ON with the INVERTER hot key.
MATE/MATE2 system display only: Set to ON with the INV hot key.
(If this setting was intentional, then no action is required.)
Loads too large. The unit can transfer more power than it can invert. If loads are
oversized, the unit will falter or crash when switching to batteries.
Reduce the size of the loads.
Undersized battery cables. Battery cables smaller than recommended will cause a significant
voltage drop when switching to batteries, acting like either an
overload or a low-battery condition. Size all cables correctly.
Unit reads AC input, Internal transfer relay may be Disconnect AC input wires and turn inverter on. Test the AC HOT
even though no damaged. and NEUTRAL OUT terminals with an AC voltmeter. If voltage
source is present. appears there, contact OutBack Technical Support.4
Inverter’s output has been Disconnect the wires from the inverter’s AC input or AC output
Inverter clicks connected to its input. Voltage terminals, or both. If the problem immediately disappears, it is an
repeatedly. AC shifts are the result of trying to external wiring issue. The inverter’s AC HOT IN and AC HOT OUT
output voltage rises match its own voltage. must remain isolated from each other.
or drops to unusual
levels with every Low AC input voltage. Can be Test AC HOT IN and AC NEUTRAL IN terminals with an AC
click. caused by weak AC source, or voltmeter. (See page 37.) If low or fluctuating, this is an
by faulty input connection. external problem.
Inverter output is being Disconnect AC HOT OUT and AC NEUTRAL OUT wires. Turn the
supplied with an external AC inverter off and then on. If the problem clears, reconnect the AC
Inverter hums loudly.
source that is out of phase. output wires. If the problem recurs when reconnected, an
System display may
external AC source is connected to the output.
show messages for
high battery voltage, Inverter has been incorrectly Check HUB10.3 ports and make certain the master inverter is
low battery voltage, stacked with another unit on plugged into port 1.
or backfeed error. the same output. All units MATE, MATE2, or MATE33 system display only: Check settings in the
come defaulted as master. Inverter Stacking menu. Only one master is allowed per system.
Generator, external AUX output is not connected. Test the generator or device to confirm functionality. Test the
fan, etc. fails to start AUX terminals with a DVM. If 12 Vdc is present when the menu
when signal is indicates the function is On, then there is an external connection
provided by AUX problem. If 12 Vdc is not present with the function On, the AUX
output. circuit may be damaged. Contact OutBack Technical Support.4
4
900-0198-01-00 Rev A 39
Troubleshooting
Error Messages
An error is caused by a critical fault. In most cases when this occurs the ERROR indicator will illuminate
and the inverter will shut down. (See page 11 for the FX inverter’s LED indicators.) The system display has
a list of error messages. One or more messages will display yes in the MATE or MATE2. It will display Y in
the MATE3 along with an event message. If a message says no or N, it is not the cause of the error. See
the system display literature for more instructions.
Some errors will reset automatically when the cause is resolved. These are noted.
It is possible to clear an error by resetting the inverter. The inverter must be turned off, and then on, to
reset it. Other possible steps are shown below. Each should be followed by resetting the inverter.
Table 6 Error Troubleshooting
Message Causes Possible Remedy

Inverter’s AC regulation cannot be maintained Check loads and measure current draw. Remove
Low Output Voltage
under high load conditions. loads as necessary.
Stacking Error Programming problem among stacked units.  Check stacking programming and designation
(Often occurs if there is no master.) of master. (See page 24.)
Can also occur when AC Output Backfeed  Check for output backfeed from an external
occurs. source. Disconnect output if necessary.
Over Temperature5 Inverter has exceeded its maximum allowed Allow the inverter to remain off to reduce the
operating temperature. See page Error! temperature, or add external cooling.
Bookmark not defined..
DC voltage is below low battery cut-out set  If this error accompanies other errors, treat
Low Battery V5 point, usually due to battery discharge. This those conditions as appropriate.
occurs after 5 minutes at this voltage.  If it occurs by itself: Recharge the batteries.
This error can be triggered by other causes. It The error will clear automatically if an AC
can appear along with Low Output Voltage, AC source is connected and the charger turns on.
Output Shorted, or AC Output Backfeed errors.
Phase Loss Error A slave was ordered to transfer to AC by the Check the AC voltage on the inverter input
master, but no AC is present. The unit continues terminals. If AC voltage is not present, the
inverting. This is the only “Error” that is not problem is external. If AC voltage is present, the
accompanied by a shutdown. unit may be damaged. Contact OutBack
Technical Support6.
DC voltage exceeded acceptable level. See Check the charging source. This problem is
High Battery V5
page 13. usually the result of external charging.
Inverter exceeded its maximum surge current Check the loads and wiring. This issue is usually
AC Output Shorted due to severe overload. the result of a wiring problem (a short), as
opposed to a poorly-sized load.
Usually indicates another AC power source (out Disconnect the AC OUT wires from the inverter.
AC Output Backfeed of phase with the inverter) was connected to Check the wires (not the inverter) with an AC
the unit’s AC output. voltmeter. If an AC source is present, shut it off.
5
This error will clear automatically when the cause of the error is resolved. The inverter will begin functioning again when this occurs.
6
40 900-0198-01-00 Rev A
Troubleshooting
Warning Messages
A warning message is caused by a non-critical fault. When this occurs, the ERROR indicator will flash,
although the inverter will not shut down. (See page 11 for the FX inverter’s LED indicators.) The system
display has a list of warning messages. One or more messages will display yes in the MATE or MATE2. It
will display Y in the MATE3 along with an event message. If a message says no or N, it is not the cause of
the warning. See the system display literature for more instructions.
Some warnings can become errors if left unattended. Frequency and voltage warnings are meant to warn
of a problematic AC source. Often the inverter will disconnect from the source. This will occur if the
condition lasts longer than the inverter’s transfer delay settings. If the inverter disconnects, the warning
will display as long as the source is present, accompanied by a disconnect message. (See page 42.)
Warning screens can only display warnings; they cannot clear them. The way to correct the fault may be
obvious from the message.
Table 7 Warning Troubleshooting
Message Definition Possible Remedy

AC Freq Too High The AC source is above the upper acceptable Check the AC source. If it is a generator, reduce its
frequency limit and prevents connection. speed.
AC Freq Too Low The AC source is below the lower acceptable Check the AC source. If it is a generator, increase its
frequency limit and prevents connection. speed.
Voltage Too High The AC source is above the upper acceptable Check the AC source. The inverter’s acceptance
voltage limit and prevents connection. range is adjustable.
NOTE: Adjusting the range may accommodate a
problematic AC source, but it will not fix it.
Voltage Too Low The AC source is below the lower acceptable Check the AC source. Check the AC wiring. The
voltage limit and prevents connection. inverter’s acceptance range is adjustable.
Input Amps > Max AC loads are drawing more current from the Check the loads. Oversized loads can open circuit
AC source than allowed by the input setting. breakers. If they exceed the inverter’s transfer relay
size, the relay can be damaged.
This issue is usually the result of a poorly-sized load,
as opposed to a wiring problem.
Temp Sensor Bad An internal inverter temperature sensor may In the MATE3, the three readings are labeled
be malfunctioning. One of the three internal Transformer, Output FETs, and Capacitors. These
sensor meters may give an unusual reading. values are given in degrees Celsius. See next page.
Internal Comm Error Probable failure on inverter’s control board. Unit may require repair. Contact OutBack Technical
Despite the name, this is not an inverter- Support7.
defined error and is not accompanied by
a shutdown.
Fan Failure The inverter’s internal cooling fan is not Turn the battery disconnect off, and then on, to
operating properly. Lack of cooling may determine if the fan self-tests. After this test, contact
result in derated inverter output wattage. OutBack Technical Support.7 (The next step will
depend on the results of the test.)
NOTE: The system can continue to operate if the
inverter can be run at reasonable levels. External
cooling may also be applied.
7
900-0198-01-00 Rev A 41
Troubleshooting
Table 7 Warning Troubleshooting

Transformer Displays the ambient temperature around MATE3 system display only: These values are given in
(in Temps screen) the inverter’s transformer. degrees Celsius.
Output FETs Displays the temperature of the FETs MATE and MATE2 system display only: Values are
(in Temps screen) (Field Effect Transistors) and heat sink. given in a representative “digital count”. Lower
counts equal higher temperatures. Higher counts
Capacitors Displays the temperature of the inverter’s equal lower temperatures. Room temperature is 210
(in Temps screen) ripple capacitors. to 220. The internal fan runs at 142 and stops at 164.
A count of either 0 or 255 is a defective sensor.
See page 47 for a table of temperature
If any reading does not seem to reflect the inverter’s
operating points and effects.
temperature or conditions, contact OutBack
Technical Support.8
Disconnect Messages
Disconnect messages explain why the inverter has disconnected from an AC source after previously being
connected. The unit returns to inverting mode if turned on. The system display has a list of disconnect
messages. One or more messages will display yes in the MATE or MATE2. It will display Y in the MATE3
along with an event message. If a message says no or N, it is not the cause of the disconnection. See the
system display literature for more instructions.
The system display may generate a concurrent event and warning message following the disconnection.
(See page 41.) If the AC source is removed, the warning will be blank, but the cause of the last
disconnection will remain.
Disconnect messages only display the reason for the disconnection; they cannot correct it. It is usually the
result of external conditions, not an inverter fault. If the condition is corrected, the inverter will reconnect.
A few settings can be changed to accommodate problems with the AC source.
Table 8 Disconnect Troubleshooting

Frequency Too High The AC source has exceeded acceptable Check AC source. If it is a generator, reduce speed.
frequency levels.
Frequency Too Low The AC source has dropped below Check AC source. If it is a generator, increase speed.
acceptable frequency levels.
Voltage > Maximum The AC source has exceeded acceptable Check AC source. The inverter’s acceptance range is
voltage levels. adjustable.
Voltage < Minimum The AC source has dropped below Check AC source. The inverter’s acceptance range is
acceptable voltage levels. adjustable.
8
42 900-0198-01-00 Rev A
Specifications
Electrical Specifications
Table 9 Electrical Specifications for 12-Volt Mobile Models
Specification FX2012MT VFX2812M
Continuous Output Power at 25°C 2000 VA 2800 VA
Continuous AC Output Current at 25°C 16.7 Aac 23.3 Aac
AC Output Voltage 120 Vac 120 Vac
AC Output Frequency 60 Hz 60 Hz
AC Output Type Single-phase Single-phase
AC Waveform True Sinewave True Sinewave
Typical Efficiency 90% 90%
Total Harmonic Distortion (maximum) 5% 5%
Harmonic Distortion (maximum single voltage) 2% 2%
AC Output Voltage Regulation ± 2% ± 2%
Load Power Factor –1 to 1 –1 to 1
AC Maximum Output Current (1 ms peak) 56 Aac 56 Aac
AC Maximum Output Current (100 ms RMS) 40 Aac 40 Aac
AC Overload Capability (100 ms surge) 4800 VA 4800 VA
AC Overload Capability (5 second) 4000 VA 4000 VA
AC Overload Capability (30 minute) 2500 VA 3200 VA
Power Consumption (idle) – Invert mode, no load ~20 watts ~20 watts
Power Consumption (idle) – Search mode 6 watts 6 watts
Power Consumption – Off ~3 watts ~3 watts
AC Input Voltage Range 80 to 150 Vac 80 to 150 Vac
AC Input Frequency Range 54 to 66 Hz 54 to 66 Hz
AC Input Current (maximum continuous) 30 Aac 30 Aac
DC Input Voltage (nominal) 12 Vdc 12 Vdc
DC Input Voltage Range 10.5 to 17 Vdc 10.5 to 17 Vdc
DC Input Power (continuous) 2.4 kVA 3.36 kVA
DC Input Maximum Current (continuous full power) 200 Adc 280 Adc
Battery Charger Maximum AC Input 12 Aac 16 Aac
Battery Charger Maximum DC Output 80 Adc 125 Adc
Auxiliary Output 0.7 Adc at 12 Vdc 0.7 Adc at 12 Vdc

Specification FX2024M FX2524MT VFX3524M
Continuous Output Power at 25°C 2000 VA 2500 VA 3500 VA
Continuous AC Output Current at 25°C 16.7 Aac 20.8 Aac 29.2 Aac
AC Output Voltage 120 Vac 120 Vac 120 Vac
AC Output Frequency 60 Hz 60 Hz 60 Hz
AC Output Type Single-phase Single-phase Single-phase
AC Waveform True Sinewave True Sinewave True Sinewave
Typical Efficiency 92% 92% 92%
Total Harmonic Distortion (maximum) 5% 5% 5%
Harmonic Distortion (maximum single voltage) 2% 2% 2%
AC Output Voltage Regulation ± 2% ± 2% ± 2%
900-0198-01-00 Rev A 43
Specifications

Specification FX2024M FX2524MT VFX3524M
Load Power Factor –1 to 1 –1 to 1 –1 to 1
AC Maximum Output Current (1 ms peak) 70 Aac 70 Aac 70 Aac
AC Maximum Output Current (100 ms RMS) 50 Aac 50 Aac 50 Aac
AC Overload Capability (100 ms surge) 4800 VA 6000 VA 6000 VA
AC Overload Capability (5 second) 4000 VA 4800 VA 5000 VA
AC Overload Capability (30 minute) 2500 VA 3200 VA 4000 VA
Power Consumption (idle) – Invert mode, no load ~20 watts ~20 watts ~20 watts
Power Consumption (idle) – Search mode 6 watts 6 watts 6 watts
Power Consumption – Off ~3 watts ~3 watts ~3 watts
AC Input Voltage Range 80 to 150 Vac 80 to 150 Vac 80 to 150 Vac
AC Input Frequency Range 54 to 66 Hz 54 to 66 Hz 54 to 66 Hz
AC Input Current (maximum continuous) 30 Aac 30 Aac 30 Aac
DC Input Voltage (nominal) 24 Vdc 24 Vdc 24 Vdc
DC Input Voltage Range 21 to 34 Vdc 21 to 34 Vdc 21 to 34 Vdc
DC Input Power (continuous) 2.4 kVA 3.0 kVA 4.2 kVA
DC Input Maximum Current (continuous full power) 100 Adc 125 Adc 175 Adc
Battery Charger Maximum AC Input 12 Aac 14 Aac 20 Aac
Battery Charger Maximum DC Output 40 Adc 55 Adc 82 Adc
Auxiliary Output 0.7 Adc at 12 Vdc 0.7 Adc at 12 Vdc 0.7 Adc at 12 Vdc

AC Output Voltage (default) 120 Vac 120 Vac
AC Output Frequency (default) 60 Hz 60 Hz
DC Input Voltage Range 28 to 45.3 Vdc 28 to 45.3 Vdc
DC Input Maximum Current (continuous full power) ~94 Adc ~120 Adc
44 900-0198-01-00 Rev A
Specifications

DC Input Voltage Range 31.5 to 51 Vdc 31.5 to 51 Vdc
DC Input Maximum Current (continuous full power) ~83 Adc ~106 Adc

Continuous AC Output Current at 25°C 25 Aac 30 Aac
CEC Weighted Efficiency 91% 91%
900-0198-01-00 Rev A 45
Specifications

DC Input Voltage Range 42 to 68 Vdc 42 to 68 Vdc
DC Input Maximum Current (continuous full power) 90 Adc 200 Adc
Mechanical Specifications
Table 14 Mechanical Specifications for Mobile Models
FX2012MT VFX2812M
FX2524MT FX2024M
FX2532MT VFX3524M
Specification
FX2536MT VFX3232M
FX3048MT VFX3236M
VFX3648M
Inverter Dimensions (H x W x D) 13 × 8.25 × 16.25" (33 × 21 × 41 cm) 12 × 8.25 × 16.25" (30 × 21 × 41 cm)
Shipping Dimensions (H x W x L) 21.75 × 13 × 22” (55 × 33 × 56 cm) 21.75 × 13 × 22” (55 × 33 × 56 cm)
Inverter Weight 62 lb (29 kg) 61 lb (28 kg)
Shipping Weight 67 lb (30 kg) 67 lb (30 kg)
Accessory Ports RJ11 (batt temp) and RJ45 (system display) RJ11 (batt temp) and RJ45 (system display)
Non-volatile Memory Yes Yes
Neutral-Ground
Yes Yes
Bond Switching
Chassis Type Sealed Vented (FX2024M is sealed)
Environmental Specifications
Table 15 Environmental Specifications for Mobile Models
Specification Value
Rated Temperature Range (meets component specifications; however,
32°F to 122°F (0°C to 50°C)
please note that the inverter output wattage is derated above 25°C)
Operational Temperature Range (functions, but not rated for operation;
–13°F to 140°F (–25°C to 60°C)
does not necessarily meet all component specifications)
IP (Ingress Protection) Rating of Enclosure IP20
Relative Humidity Rating 93%
46 900-0198-01-00 Rev A
Specifications
Regulatory Specifications
Listings
This product carries a listing report by ETL. It is listed to the following standards:
 UL 458 — Standard for Safety Power Converters/Inverters and Power Converter/Inverter Systems
for Land Vehicles and Marine Crafts, ANSI/UL 458, Ed:3, dated 2006/04/19 (with revisions through
and including 2013/02/20)
 CSA C22.2, General Use Power Supplies, No. 107.1, Issue2001/09/01, Ed:3 (R2011)
Summary of Operating Limits

Severe conditions cause the inverter to limit its output or shut down for protection. The most common
conditions are high voltage, low voltage, and temperature. The limits for these conditions are
summarized in Table 16. See page 40 for more information on these conditions and the warning or error
messages which accompany them.
Table 16 Operating Limits for Mobile Models

12-Volt 24-Volt 32-Volt 36-Volt 48-Volt
Voltage Limits
Model Model Model Model Model
Limit Adjustable Off On Off On Off On Off On Off On
>17 <17 >34 <34 >45.3 <45.3 >51 <51 >68 <68
High Battery No
Vdc Vdc Vdc Vdc Vdc Vdc Vdc Vdc Vdc Vdc
>10.5 <12.5 >21.0 <25.0 >28 <33.3 >31.5 <37.5 >42.0 <50.0
Low Battery (default) Yes
Vdc Vdc Vdc Vdc Vdc Vdc Vdc Vdc Vdc Vdc
Temperature Limits
Limit Transformer Output FETs Capacitors
Over Temperature error <125°C >125°C <95°C >95°C <95°C >95°C
Reduced charging >120°C >90°C >90°C
Internal Fan <50°C >60°C <50°C >60°C <50°C >60°C
900-0198-01-00 Rev A 47
Specifications
Default Settings and Ranges (MATE or MATE2)

Table 17 12-Volt Inverter Settings (MATE)
Field Item Default Minimum Maximum
search sensitivity (see page 14 for increments) 6 0 50
Search search pulse length 8 2 20
search pulse spacing 60 AC cycles 4 AC cycles 120 AC cycles
ac transfer control Grid Grid or Gen
Input ac1/grid limit 28 Aac 5 Aac 30 Aac
ac2/gen limit 28 Aac 2 Aac 30 Aac
low battery cut-out (LBCO) 10.5 Vdc 9 Vdc 12 Vdc
Inverter low battery cut-in (LBCI) 12.5 Vdc 11 Vdc 13 Vdc
adjust output voltage 120 Vac 110 Vac 125 Vac
FX2012MT 10 Aac 0 Aac 12 Aac
charger limit
VFX2812M 14 Aac 0 Aac 16 Aac
absorb voltage 14.4 Vdc 13 Vdc 16 Vdc
absorb time limit 1.0 hours 0.0 hours 24.0 hours
Charger float voltage 13.6 Vdc 12 Vdc 15 Vdc
float time period 1.0 hours 0.0 hours 24.0 hours
refloat voltage 12.5 Vdc 11 Vdc 13 Vdc
equalization voltage 14.4 Vdc 14 Vdc 17 Vdc
equalization time period 1.0 hours 0.0 hours 24.0 hours
ac1/grid lower limit 108 Vac 40 Vac 115 Vac
ac1/grid upper limit 140 Vac 130 Vac 150 Vac
Grid
ac1/grid input limit 28 Aac 5 Aac 30 Aac
ac1/grid transfer delay 6 AC cycles 0 AC cycles 240 AC cycles
gen input connect delay 0.5 minutes 0.2 minutes 15 minutes
ac2/gen lower limit 108 Vac 40 Vac 115 Vac
Generator
ac2/gen upper limit 140 Vac 130 Vac 150 Vac
(Gen)
ac2/gen input limit 28 Aac 2 Aac 30 Aac
ac2/gen transfer delay 60 AC cycles 0 AC cycles 240 AC cycles
aux output control AUTO ON, OFF, or AUTO
Cool Fan Cool Fan, DivertDC, DivertAC, AC Drop, Vent
aux output function
Fan, Fault, GenAlert, LoadShed, or Remote
genalert on voltage 11 Vdc 10 Vdc 14 Vdc
genalert on delay 4 minutes 0 minutes 240 minutes
Auxiliary genalert off set point 14 Vdc 12 Vdc 18 Vdc
(AUX) genalert off delay 9 minutes 0 minutes 240 minutes
load shed off voltage 11 Vdc 10 Vdc 14 Vdc
vent fan on set point 13 Vdc 10 Vdc 16 Vdc
vent fan off period 5 minutes 0 minutes 30 minutes
diversion on voltage 14.6 Vdc 12 Vdc 16 Vdc
diversion off delay 30 seconds 0 seconds 240 seconds
1-2ph Master, Classic Slave, OB Slave L1,
Stacking stack phase Master
OB Slave L2, 3ph Master, 3ph Slave
master adjust only 0 0 7
Power Save
slave adjust only 1 1 15
sell re volts — Inoperative
Sell grid tie window — Inoperative
grid tie authority — Inoperative
vac input adjustment9 236 220 254
Calibration
vac output adjustment9 236 220 254
(Cal)
battery vdc adjustment10 2 0 4
9
These values are in digital counts, not volts. Lower counts stand for higher voltages, and higher counts mean lower voltages. One count equals approximately 1 Vac.
The range of adjustment is 15 Vac above nominal and 17 Vac below nominal.
10
These values are in digital counts, not volts. One count equals 0.1 Vdc. The range of adjustment is 0.2 Vdc above or below nominal.
48 900-0198-01-00 Rev A
Specifications

low battery cut-out (LBCO) 21 Vdc 18 Vdc 24 Vdc
Inverter low battery cut-in (LBCI) 25 Vdc 22 Vdc 26 Vdc
charger limit
refloat voltage 25 Vdc 22 Vdc 26 Vdc
Grid
Generator
(Gen)
aux output function
Power Save
Calibration
(Cal)
11
12
900-0198-01-00 Rev A 49
Specifications

low battery cut-out (LBCO) 27.7 Vdc 23.8 Vdc 31.7 Vdc
Inverter low battery cut-in (LBCI) 33 Vdc 29 Vdc 34.3 Vdc
charger limit
absorb voltage 38 Vdc 34.3 Vdc 42.2 Vdc
Charger float voltage 35.9 Vdc 31.7 Vdc 39.6 Vdc
refloat voltage 33 Vdc 29 Vdc 34.3 Vdc
equalization voltage 38 Vdc 37 Vdc 44.9 Vdc
Grid
Generator
(Gen)
aux output function
genalert on voltage 29 Vdc 26.4 Vdc 37 Vdc
Auxiliary genalert off set point 37 Vdc 31.7 Vdc 47.5 Vdc
load shed off voltage 29 Vdc 26.4 Vdc 37 Vdc
vent fan on set point 34.3 Vdc 26.4 Vdc 42.2 Vdc
diversion on voltage 38.5 Vdc 31.7 Vdc 42.2 Vdc
Power Save
Calibration
(Cal)
13
14
50 900-0198-01-00 Rev A
Specifications

low battery cut-out (LBCO) 31.5 Vdc 27 Vdc 36 Vdc
Inverter low battery cut-in (LBCI) 37.5 Vdc 33 Vdc 39 Vdc
charger limit
refloat voltage 37.5 Vdc 33 Vdc 39 Vdc
Grid
Generator
(Gen)
aux output function
Power Save
Calibration
(Cal)
15
16
900-0198-01-00 Rev A 51
Specifications

low battery cut-out (LBCO) 42 Vdc 36 Vdc 48 Vdc
Inverter low battery cut-in (LBCI) 50 Vdc 30 Vdc 52 Vdc
charger limit
refloat voltage 50 Vdc 44 Vdc 52 Vdc
Grid
Generator
(Gen)
aux output function
Power Save
Calibration
(Cal)
17
18
52 900-0198-01-00 Rev A
Specifications
Default Settings and Ranges (MATE3)

Table 22 12-Volt Inverter Settings (MATE3)
INVERTER Hot Key Inverter Mode Off On, Off, or Search
CHARGER Hot Key Charger Control On On or Off
AC Input Hot Key AC Input Mode Use Drop or Use
Sensitivity (see page 14 for increments) 6 0 50
Search Pulse Length 8 AC Cycles 4 AC Cycles 20 AC Cycles
Pulse Spacing 60 AC Cycles 4 AC Cycles 120 AC Cycles
Input Type Grid Grid or Gen
Grid Input AC Limit 28 Aac 5 Aac 30 Aac
AC Input and
Gen Input AC Limit 28 Aac 2 Aac 30 Aac
Current Limit FX2012MT 10 Aac 0 Aac 12 Aac
Charger AC Limit
Voltage Limit Lower 108 Vac 40 Vac 115 Vac
Grid AC Input
(Voltage Limit) Upper 140 Vac 130 Vac 150 Vac
Voltage Limits Transfer Delay 0.1 second 0.12 seconds 4.0 seconds
Gen AC Input (Voltage Limit) Upper 140 Vac 130 Vac 150 Vac
Connect Delay 0.5 minutes 0.2 minutes 15.0 minutes
AC Output Output Voltage 120 Vac 110 Vac 125 Vac
Cut-Out Voltage 10.5 Vdc 9.0 Vdc 12.0 Vdc
Low Battery
Cut-In Voltage 12.5 Vdc 11.0 Vdc 13.0 Vdc
Absorb Voltage 14.4 Vdc 13.0 Vdc 16.0 Vdc
(Absorb) Time 1.0 hours 0.0 hours 24.0 hours
Battery Charger Float Voltage 13.6 Vdc 12.0 Vdc 15.0 Vdc
(Float) Time 1.0 hours 0.0 hours 24.0 hours
Re-Float Voltage 12.5 Vdc 11.0 Vdc 13.0 Vdc
Equalize Voltage 14.4 Vdc 14.0 Vdc 17.0 Vdc
Battery Equalize
(Equalize) Time 1.0 hours 0.0 hours 24.0 hours
Aux Control Auto Off, Auto or On
Cool Fan Cool Fan, DivertDC, DivertAC, AC Drop, Vent Fan,
Aux Mode
Fault, GenAlert, LoadShed, or Remote
(Load Shed) Enable Voltage 11 Vdc 10 Vdc 14 Vdc
(Gen Alert) ON Voltage 11 Vdc 10 Vdc 14 Vdc
(Gen Alert ON) Delay 4 minutes 0 minutes 240 minutes
Auxiliary Output
(Gen Alert) OFF Voltage 14 Vdc 12 Vdc 18 Vdc
(Gen Alert OFF) Delay 9 minutes 0 minutes 240 minutes
(Vent Fan) Enable Voltage 13 Vdc 10 Vdc 16 Vdc
(Vent Fan) Off Period 5 minutes 0 minutes 30 minutes
(Divert DC or AC) Enable Voltage 14.6 Vdc 12 Vdc 16 Vdc
(Divert DC or AC) Off Delay 30 seconds 0 seconds 240 seconds
1-2phase Master, Classic Slave, OB Slave L1,
Inverter Stacking Stack Mode Master
OB Slave L2, 3phase Master, 3phase Slave
Power Save Master Adjust Only 0 0 7
Ranking Slave Adjust Only 1 1 15
Grid Tie Enable — Inoperative
Grid-Tie Sell Sell Voltage — Inoperative
Grid Tie Window — Inoperative
Input Voltage19 -1 -3 1
Calibrate Output Voltage19 -1 -3 1
Battery Voltage20 0.0 -0.2 0.2
19
These values represent an adjustable setting with a total range of 4 Vac. The default value of -1 means the calibration will subtract 1 volt from the measured value.
The range of settings allow up to 1 volt to be added to the measured value, or up to 3 volts to be subtracted from it. The result is also displayed.
20
These values represent an adjustable setting with a range of ± 0.2 Vdc from the measured value. The range of settings allows up to 0.2 volts to be either added or
subtracted from the measured value. The result is also displayed.
900-0198-01-00 Rev A 53
Specifications

AC Input and
Charger AC Limit
Grid AC Input
Cut-Out Voltage 21 Vdc 18 Vdc 24 Vdc
Low Battery
Cut-In Voltage 25 Vdc 22 Vdc 26 Vdc
Absorb Voltage 28.8 Vdc 26 Vdc 32 Vdc
Battery Charger Float Voltage 27.2 Vdc 24 Vdc 30 Vdc
Re-Float Voltage 25 Vdc 22 Vdc 26 Vdc
Equalize Voltage 28.8 Vdc 28 Vdc 34 Vdc
Battery Equalize
Aux Mode
Auxiliary Output
21
22
subtracted from the measured value (in increments of 0.2 Vdc). The result is also displayed.
54 900-0198-01-00 Rev A
Specifications

AC Input and
Charger AC Limit
Grid AC Input
Voltage Limits 0.1 second 0.12 seconds 4.0 seconds
Transfer Delay
Cut-Out Voltage 27.7 Vdc 23.8 Vdc 31.7 Vdc
Low Battery
Cut-In Voltage 33 Vdc 29 Vdc 68.6 Vdc
Absorb Voltage 38 Vdc 34.3 Vdc 42.2 Vdc
Battery Charger Float Voltage 35.9 Vdc 31.7 Vdc 39.6 Vdc
Re-Float Voltage 33 Vdc 29 Vdc 34.3 Vdc
Equalize Voltage 38 Vdc 37 Vdc 44.9 Vdc
Battery Equalize
Aux Mode
(Load Shed) Enable Voltage 29 Vdc 26.4 Vdc 37 Vdc
(Gen Alert) ON Voltage 29 Vdc 26.4 Vdc 37 Vdc
Auxiliary Output
(Gen Alert) OFF Voltage 37 Vdc 31.7 Vdc 47.5 Vdc
(Vent Fan) Enable Voltage 34.3 Vdc 26.4 Vdc 42.2 Vdc
(Divert DC or AC) Enable Voltage 38.5 Vdc 31.7 Vdc 42.2 Vdc
23
24
900-0198-01-00 Rev A 55
Specifications

AC Input and
Charger AC Limit
Grid AC Input
Cut-Out Voltage 31.5 Vdc 27 Vdc 36 Vdc
Low Battery
Cut-In Voltage 37.5 Vdc 33 Vdc 39 Vdc
Re-Float Voltage 37.5 Vdc 33 Vdc 39 Vdc
Battery Equalize
Aux Mode
Auxiliary Output (Gen Alert) OFF Voltage 42 Vdc 36 Vdc 54 Vdc
25
26
56 900-0198-01-00 Rev A
Specifications

AC Input and
Current Limit FX3048MT 12Aac 0 Aac 14 Aac
Charger AC Limit
Grid AC Input
Voltage Limits 0.1 second 0.12 seconds 4.0 seconds
Transfer Delay
Cut-Out Voltage 42 Vdc 36 Vdc 48 Vdc
Low Battery
Cut-In Voltage 50 Vdc 44 Vdc 52 Vdc
Re-Float Voltage 50 Vdc 44 Vdc 52 Vdc
Battery Equalize
Aux Mode
Auxiliary Output
27
28
900-0198-01-00 Rev A 57
Specifications
Definitions
The following is a list of initials, terms, and definitions used in conjunction with this product.
Table 27 Terms and Definitions
Term Definition
AC Alternating Current; refers to voltage produced by the inverter, utility grid, or generator
AGS Advanced Generator Start
AUX Inverter’s 12-volt auxiliary output
Communications Multi-port device such as the OutBack HUB 4 or HUB10.3; used for connecting multiple OutBack devices
manager on a single remote display; essential for stacking inverters
CSA Canadian Standards Association; establishes Canadian national standards and the Canadian Electrical
Code, including C22.1 and C22.2
DC Direct Current; refers to voltage produced by the batteries or renewable source
DVM Digital Voltmeter

ETL Electrical Testing Laboratories; short for the company ETL Semko; refers to a certification issued by ETL
to OutBack products indicating that they meet certain UL standards
GND Ground; a permanent conductive connection to earth for safety reasons; also known as Chassis Ground,
Protective Earth, PE, Grounding Electrode Conductor, and GEC
HBX High Battery Transfer; a function of the remote system display
HUB An OutBack communications manager product; used for system stacking and coordination
Invert, inverting The act of converting DC voltage to AC voltage for load use or other applications
LBCO Low Battery Cut-Out; set point at which the inverter shuts down due to low voltage
LED Light-Emitting Diode; refers to indicators used by the inverter and the system display
Master An inverter which provides the primary output phase of a stacked system; other stacked inverters base
their output and on/off state on the master
MATE, MATE2, MATE3 System display products, used for monitoring, programming and communicating with the inverter
NEU AC Neutral; also known as Common
Neutral-to-ground bond A mechanical connection between the AC neutral (Common) bus and the ground (PE) bus; this bond
makes the AC neutral safe to handle
PV Photovoltaic
RTS Remote Temperature Sensor; accessory that measures battery temperature for charging
Split-phase A type of utility electrical system with two “hot” lines that typically carry 120 Vac with respect to neutral
and 240 Vac with respect to each other; common in North America
Slave An inverter which adds additional power to the master in a stacked system; a slave does not provide an
output of its own
System display Remote interface device (such as the MATE3), used for monitoring, programming and communicating
with the inverter; also called “remote system display”
Three-phase, 3-phase A type of utility electrical system with three “hot” lines, each 120° out of phase;
each carries the nominal line voltage with respect to neutral; each carries voltage with respect to each
other equaling the line voltage multiplied by 1.732
UL Underwriters Laboratories; refers to a set of safety standards governing electrical products
Utility grid The electrical service and infrastructure supported by the electrical or utility company; also called “shore
power”, “mains”, “utility service”, or “grid”
58 900-0198-01-00 Rev A
Index
Silent ................................................................................ 21
1 Steps ......................................................................... 20, 22
Charging Current ........................................................... 19, 30
12V AUX .................................................................................... 32 Communications Manager ................................................ 25
Stacking ............................................................ 26, 27, 28
A Cool Fan.................................................................................... 32
CSA C22.2 ............................................................................. 8, 47
Absorption Stage................................................................... 21
AC Input ............................................................................. 13, 15
AC Test Points ......................................................................... 37 D
AGS (Advanced Generator Start) ...................................... 34 Default Settings
Audience .................................................................................... 7 MATE or MATE2
AUX............................................................................................. 32 12V .................................................................................. 48
AUX Functions 24V .................................................................................. 49
Cool Fan ..........................................................................32 32V .................................................................................. 50
Diversion Control .........................................................32 36V .................................................................................. 51
Fault..................................................................................33 48V .................................................................................. 53
GenAlert ..........................................................................33 MATE3
LoadShed........................................................................33 12V .................................................................................. 54
Remote ............................................................................34 24V .................................................................................. 55
Source Status.................................................................33 32V .................................................................................. 56
Summary Table.............................................................34 36V .................................................................................. 57
Vent Fan ..........................................................................33 48V .................................................................................. 58
AXS Port .................................................................................. 8 Definitions ............................................................................... 59
Design ....................................................................................... 13
Disconnect............................................................................... 42
B Diversion Control................................................................... 32
Batteries .................................................................................... 14
Battery Charging .................................................................... 18 E
Current ............................................................................18 Equalization ............................................................................ 23
Graphs .............................................................................19 Errors ......................................................................................... 40
Steps.................................................................................19
Battery Indicators .................................................................. 11
F
C Features .......................................................................................8
FLEXnet DC .............................................................................. 11
Caution Symbol........................................................................ 7 Float Stage ............................................................................... 21
Charging Functions ....................................................................................8
Absorption Stage .........................................................21 AC Input Limit ............................................................... 15
Current ............................................................................18 AC Transfer .................................................................... 17
Float..................................................................................21 Inverting ......................................................................... 13
Float Stage .....................................................................21 LBCO ......................................................................... 14, 47
None .................................................................................20 Search .............................................................................. 14
Refloat..............................................................................21
900-0198-01-00 Rev A 59
Index
G S
GenAlert ................................................................................... 33 Safety ........................................................................................... 7
Generator Search ........................................................................................14
Sizing ............................................................................... 17 Series Stacking ........................................................................26
Series/Parallel Stacking ........................................................28
Settings
H MATE or MATE2 ................................ 48, 49, 50, 51, 53
High Battery Cut-Out .................................................... 14, 47 MATE3 .................................................. 54, 55, 56, 57, 58
HUB4, HUB10.3................................................................... 8, 25 Silent
Charging ........................................................................ 21
Power Save ................................................................... 29
I Source Status...........................................................................33
Important Symbol .................................................................... 7 Specifications
Input Priorities........................................................................ 15 12-volt ............................................................................. 43
Inverting ................................................................................... 13 24-volt ............................................................................. 43
32-volt ............................................................................. 44
36-volt ............................................................................. 45
L 48-volt ............................................................................. 45
Environmental.............................................................. 46
LBCO (Low Battery Cut-Out) ................................ 11, 14, 47
Mechanical .................................................................... 46
LED Indicators ................................................................. 11, 12
Regulatory ..................................................................... 47
Listings ......................................................................................... 8
Stacking.....................................................................................25
LoadShed ................................................................................. 33
Charging ........................................................................ 19
Low Battery Cut-In ......................................................... 14, 47
Input ................................................................................ 17
Parallel ............................................................................ 27
M Power Save .................................................................... 30
Series ............................................................................... 26
MATE, MATE2, MATE3...........................................8, 9, 25, 37 Series/Parallel ............................................................... 28
MATE3 ....................................................................................... 35 Three-Phase .................................................................. 28
Metering................................................................................... 35 Status Indicators.....................................................................12
Switch ........................................................................................10
N Symbols Used............................................................................ 7
System Display..................................................... 9, 25, 35, 37
Note Symbol .............................................................................. 7 Stacking ............................................................ 26, 27, 28
O T
OPTICS RE .............................................................................. 8, 9 Temperature ..................................................................... 46, 47
Temperature Compensation .............................................23
P Terms and Definitions ..........................................................59
Test Points ................................................................................37
Parallel Stacking .................................................................... 27 Three-Phase Stacking ...........................................................28
Power Save .............................................................................. 29 Timers
Absorption .................................................................... 21
Equalize .......................................................................... 23
R Float ................................................................................. 22
Ranks, Power Save ................................................................ 29 Transfer Relay ................................................................... 15, 17
Regulatory ............................................................................... 47 Troubleshooting ....................................................................37
Relay AUX ................................................................................ 32 Disconnect Messages ................................................ 42
Remote ..................................................................................... 34 Error Messages ............................................................. 40
Remote Temperature Sensor (RTS) ................................. 23 Warning Messages...................................................... 41
60 900-0198-01-00 Rev A
Index
U W
UL458.................................................................................... 8, 47 Warning Symbol .......................................................................7
Warnings .................................................................................. 41
V
Vent Fan Control .................................................................... 33
900-0198-01-00 Rev A 61
Index
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62 900-0198-01-00 Rev A
Index
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900-0198-01-00 Rev A 63
Masters of the Off-Grid.™ First Choice for the New Grid.
Corporate Headquarters European Office
17825 – 59th Avenue N.E. Hansastrasse 8
Suite B D-91126
Arlington, WA 98223 USA Schwabach, Germany
+1.360.435.6030 +49.9122.79889.0
900-0198-01-00 Rev A

FX Inverter/Charger: Operator's Manual

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FX Inverter/Charger: Operator's Manual

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FX Inverter/Charger

FX and VFX Mobile Series

Date and Revision

CAUTION: Hazard to Equipment

Welcome to OutBack Power Technologies

Figure 1 FX Mobile Series Inverter/Charger with Turbo Fan

WARNING: Reduced Protection

CAUTION: Equipment Damage

System Display and Controller

Figure 2 MATE, MATE2, MATE3, and AXS Port

AUX Indicator (see page 31)

Figure 3 LED Indicators

Table 1 Battery Indicator Values

Figure 4 Inverter Status LED Indicators

Description of Inverter Operations

CAUTION: Equipment Damage

CAUTION: Equipment Damage

CAUTION: Equipment Damage

Charge Current for Multiple Inverters

Figure 5 Charging Stages (Auto Setting)

Figure 6 Charging Stages (On Setting)

New Charging Cycle

CAUTION: Battery Damage

Battery Temperature Compensation

Table 3 Temperature Compensation

Nominal Number of Compensation Maximum

12 Vdc 6 0.03 volts per degree C ± 0.6 Vdc

Multiple-Inverter Installations (Stacking)

MATE System Display MATE2 System Display MATE3 System Display

Figure 7 OutBack HUB10.3, MATE, MATE2 , and MATE3

Classic Series Stacking (Dual-Stack)

1-2phase Master (L1)

Figure 8 Example of Classic Series Stacking Arrangement

OutBack Series Stacking (Dual-Stack)

Figure 9 Example of OutBack Series Stacking Arrangement

Parallel Stacking (Dual-Stack and Larger)

Figure 10 Example of Parallel Stacking Arrangement (Three Inverters)

Series/Parallel Stacking (Quad-Stack or Larger)

OB Slave L1 OB Slave LOAD

Figure 11 Example of Series/Parallel Stacking Arrangement (Four Inverters)

Figure 12 Example of Three-Phase Stacking Arrangement (Three Inverters)

Master Slave 1 Slave 2 Slave 3

Minimal load On Off Off Off

High load On On On Off

Figure 13 Power Save Levels and Loads

Master Slave 1 Slave 2 Slave 3

<12 Aac On Off Off Off

Figure 14 Power Save Priority (Parallel)

 The first line shows a load handled by the master alone.

L1 Master L1 Slave 1 L1 Slave 2 L2 Slave 1 L2 Slave 2 L2 Slave 3

Figure 15 Power Save Priority (Split-Phase)

 Settable AC Divert parameters include:

The AUX functions are summarized in Table 4.

Table 4 Aux Mode Functions

System Display-Based Functions (AGS)

Inverter Soft Key

Figure 16 Home Screen

Inverter Mode Charge Mode

Figure 17 Inverter Screens

NOTE: The charger settings cannot be adjusted on this screen.

Figure 18 Battery Screen

Figure 19 AC Test Points

WARNING: Shock Hazard